As Ghana edges closer to the Christmas holidays, the Central Business District (CBD) is already buzzing with early signs of the festive season. The familiar blend of excitement and anticipation fills the air as traders prepare for what is traditionally their busiest period of the year. Although sales remain slow at this stage, many vendors are optimistic that business will pick up as Christmas draws nearer.
A walk through the bustling CBD reveals a market fully awakened to the season. Stalls are draped with colourful lights, sparkling garlands, and a wide array of festive items—from hampers and toys to fabrics and household gifts. Christmas carols echo from shops and speakers, blending with the usual city bustle to create a warm, inviting holiday atmosphere.
Christmas decoration vendors, in particular, have stepped up their game this year. With ladders in hand and decorations strung high across walkways, they have transformed streets and shopping areas into vibrant corridors of celebration, ensuring that shoppers and passersby feel the magic of the season.
Despite the visible cheer, many traders expressed concerns about current economic challenges. They noted that purchasing power has dipped and the flow of money in the system remains slow.
“We have a lot of Christmas items in town; it’s just that the market is very slow,” one trader lamented.
Another vendor, who had only started selling Christmas goods the previous day, remained hopeful about the season.
“Our products are usually the last to be purchased, but I can’t say sales are bad. I know next week I’ll be busy selling. People should patronise my items because they are affordable,” she said.
Traders have, therefore, called on government to take urgent steps to stabilise prices and improve liquidity as families prepare for the holidays.
“We are calling on people to patronise our items because they are being sold at very low prices. We are also looking forward to seeing a change in buying patterns,” another trader added.
Shoppers also shared warm Christmas wishes for loved ones and echoed traders’ concerns.
“This Christmas is not going as expected, but I believe things will change. Ghanaians should have patience. We are calling on government once again to release money into the system,” a shopper noted.
As the countdown to Christmas continues, the Central Business District stands as a vibrant reflection of hope, resilience, and festive joy. Traders remain confident that sales will improve, shoppers are embracing the season’s spirit, and the streets continue to light up with colourful decorations. One thing is clear—Christmas is truly in the air.
By Nana Achiaa Aboagye
