The leadership of Kantamanto Market have cut ties with GUCDA over several factors
In a significant development within Ghana’s used clothing industry, the leadership of Kantamanto Market has announced its decision to break away from the Ghana Used Clothing Dealers Association (GUCDA), citing disagreements over representation, revenue management, and policy implementation.
The decision, disclosed in a statement released on Monday, March 25, 2025, follows growing tensions between Kantamanto Market leaders and GUCDA, the body representing importers of used clothing in Ghana.
Market leaders argue that GUCDA has failed to adequately represent their interests and has not provided sufficient benefits to their members.
According to the statement, signed by Market Manager Adutwum Atta Manu on behalf of Kantamanto’s 13-section leadership, the traders have officially distanced themselves from GUCDA and other external industry groups.
The leadership now claims full authority over the representation of shoe sellers, retailers, upcyclers, and other traders operating within the market.
“We are now independent of GUCDA, the importers’ association, and any other body within the used clothing industry,” the statement read, rejecting any external authority over Kantamanto’s affairs.
One of the key grievances outlined by the market leadership is the alleged lack of transparency in GUCDA’s revenue management.
Leaders claim that funds generated from the used clothing trade have not been accounted for in a transparent and equitable manner, fueling dissatisfaction among market traders.
The recent fire disaster at Kantamanto Market has further strengthened the resolve of market leaders to establish a more centralized and accountable governance structure.
The leadership emphasised that moving forward, all communications with government agencies, corporate organizations, and the media will be handled directly through their internal leadership.
In light of this separation, Kantamanto Market leaders have announced plans to form an independent association dedicated to promoting the interests of used clothing traders within the market.
The new body is expected to advocate for better policies, improved working conditions, and increased economic opportunities for traders.
Market Manager Adutwum Atta Manu also extended gratitude to the Government of Ghana, corporate entities, and individuals who provided support in the aftermath of the fire disaster.
This split is expected to reshape the dynamics of Ghana’s used clothing industry, with traders and industry stakeholders keenly watching the potential impact of Kantamanto Market’s decision.
Meanwhile, when contacted for a response, the leadership of GUCDA declined to comment, stating that internal consultations on the matter were still ongoing.
NAD/MA