Accra is the popular gateway into the African nation of Ghana. The
capital city reflects images from a modern and well-developed society.
It is nothing like some of us believes it to be. A progressive city,
Accra is one of the most frequented cities in the African continent. The
city has many admirers and travelers from different parts of the world
flock to its premises each day. The Kotoka International Airport in the
city caters to the travelers visiting here. The city is blessed with a
few very beautiful natural and man-made attractions some of which
include Lake Volta, Kakum National Park, Cape Coast Castle, and Labadi
Beach. However, there is one place that none of the travelers should
skip during their visit to the city and it is the Makola Market.
Mokola Market is situated deep in the heart of the lively Accra city.
This market place is one of the most popular shopping districts located
within the capital city’s limits. It is the one stop-shop for all the
locals as well as the foreign travelers. Whether you are looking for
fresh vegetables or meat, clothing, accessories, artifacts, gadgets, or
livestock, this is just the right place to hit! The market is a mix of
the old and the modern, where one can find something as mundane as food
grains to as technologically advance as a Smartphone. Like its
character, the market is flooded with people from different strata of
the society, who at this point are united by common interests.
However, the uniqueness of this market lies in the fact that female
sellers dominate the space here. The sight of women marketers calling
out to their customers, and bargaining with them to sell their products
at a convenient price is delightful. The picture is contrary to the
belief that women in the country are suppressed.
The spectacular sight at the colorful market adorned with gorgeous
jewelry made of handcrafted beads is magnificent! After all, where does
one get to witness incredible African accessories? Other hot selling
items here include imported food items, medicines, daily utensils,
various apparatus, and footwear. The market is usually flooded with
traders and buyers during the daytime. The best time however, to visit
this place is early morning hours when it is relatively less crowded and
people have just started swarming in.
The market has been ruling the heart of the Ghanaian people ever since
it came into being in the year 1924. Until the August of 1979, it
continued to serve the purpose of its existence when suddenly it was
demolished. The then government believed a lot of banned items were
being sold openly in the market and thus favored its destruction.
However, today it represents the economics and an integral part of the
everyday life in Accra. To this date, this market has featured on
various travel shows depicting the true spirit of the city. While
touring this chaotic market place one should not forget to relish the
local drink named as Palm Wine. On one hand, you can utilize your
marketing skills to bargain and shop to your heart’s content. On the
other hand, you need to be aware of touts, follow market etiquettes, and
of course beware of pickpockets and thieves!