The Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) has announced plans to support traders displaced by the demolition of structures along the Labadi beachfront in Ghana. According to SSNIT Director-General, Kwasi Afreh Biney, a committee has been established to gather information on those affected, including hotel employees and independent traders. The committee aims to determine how to support those who have lost their livelihoods.
Mr Afreh Biney made the announcement on JoyNews' Newsfile programme on Saturday, October 10, 2026. He stated that the exercise would help SSNIT identify those affected and explore ways to reintegrate them into planned developments along the beachfront. The committee will address matters such as settling young people who had opportunities to work in the area, either as employees or entrepreneurs.
SSNIT's two hotels, Labadi Beach and La Palm Royal Beach, will consider some of the affected employees for employment as new development plans are implemented. Mr Afreh Biney stated that the hotels would provide job opportunities for some of the displaced workers. This move aims to support those who have been impacted by the demolition.
For traders and small business operators, the revised beachfront plan makes provision for an African market to sell Ghanaian and other African foods and artefacts. The new design, which is currently being reviewed, includes space for an African market. This market will provide opportunities for traders to continue their businesses.
Mr Afreh Biney also mentioned that work to clear debris, restore the entrance, and provide washrooms and other facilities would be expedited to allow operators to resume business before Christmas. This effort aims to minimize the disruption caused by the demolition and support the local economy.
A new Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) centre is also planned for the nearby La Trade Fair site in the coming weeks. This development is part of the broader plan to revitalize the area and provide new opportunities for businesses and workers.
The announcement follows a statement by the Member of Parliament for La Dadekotopon and Deputy Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Mrs Rita Naa Odoley Sowah, that a committee would be established to determine appropriate compensation for people whose businesses and property were affected by the demolition. SSNIT's plans aim to provide support to those affected and help them recover from the impact of the demolition.
Key points
- SSNIT to provide space at a planned African market for displaced traders
- Two SSNIT-owned hotels to consider affected employees for employment
- Work to clear debris and restore facilities to be expedited before Christmas
