Tension Rises at Adjen Kotoku Onion Market Over Foreign Supply Concerns
A misunderstanding has emerged between onion transporters importing produce from neighbouring countries and local traders at the Adjen Kotoku market, raising concerns about market control and fair trade practices.
Speaking on Kessben Maakye with Kojo Preko Dankwa, Chairman of the Onion Drivers Union at Adjen Kotoku, Mr. Inusah, addressed fears among local traders who claim that Nigerian counterparts are gradually taking over their market space.
According to the traders, the increasing influx of onions from Nigeria and other Sahelian countries threatens their livelihoods and long-standing dominance in the market.
However, Mr. Inusah dismissed these claims, explaining that the importation of onions is a long-established practice, particularly during Ghana’s lean seasons when local supply drops.
“We only import onions from countries like Nigeria, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso when production in Ghana is low,” he clarified.
He further explained that the process does not involve Ghanaian women traders traveling to these countries, as widely speculated. Instead, arrangements are made with truck drivers who transport goods from Ghana to those countries to bring onions on their return trips.
“We negotiate with drivers who send goods to those countries. On their way back, they carry onions for the owners here. It is not true that Ghanaian women travel all the way to Niger, Mali, or Nigeria to purchase onions,” he added.
Mr. Inusah emphasized that the system has been mutually beneficial and essential for sustaining supply during off-seasons, urging stakeholders to avoid misinformation that could escalate tensions.
He has called on the relevant authorities to step in and facilitate dialogue between the parties to ensure a peaceful resolution.
“We are calling on the authorities to intervene so that we can have a calm and constructive discussion,” he appealed.
The situation remains tense, as both traders and transporters seek clarity and reassurance over market operations and future collaboration.
