Benin/After more than a century of existence Dantokpa market closed to users, the end of an era

The renovation of Benin's markets is one of the major projects of the government of the rupture. The large Dantokpa market in Cotonou will be closed forever. A great sadness for the customers, the traders of Cotonou and also for those who come from neighboring countries, as this market of over a century of existence is emblematic of the country.

The closure of Dantokpa and the announced relocation of traders to other markets, worries Beninese customers and especially those from neighboring countries. Everyone wonders whether customers will follow suit.
25 hectares, at least 35,000 traders, Dantokpa is a city within a city. The Dantokpa market (or simply Tokpa) is located in Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin; it is the largest open-air market in West Africa. The decision to close this century-old market, responds to an imperative of cleanliness, explains José Tonato, the Minister in charge of the Living Environment and Urban Development: "There is a total mix of genres and commercial activities ranging from retail to wholesale, mixing all types of products, agricultural, manufactured products, noble products, textiles, jewelry, cosmetics, etc.. And it had become a real black spot in the heart of the city of Cotonou. A critical point from an environmental point of view, which had to be addressed at all costs. "
An argument that Minister José Tonato dismisses. If Dantokpa is going to close, nine other markets in Cotonou are being renovated and expanded to accommodate the traders of Dantokpa. "It is the association of market users with the presidents of the offices of each market who have toured the construction sites to appreciate the products that will be made available to them, and especially to realize that we have fully taken into account their concerns, "said the minister.

In total, 20 Beninese markets, including nine in Cotonou, are being renovated and expanded. A wholesale market is being built in Calavi, a suburb of Cotonou. A whole policy of urban renewal. As for the Dantokpa site, it will be redeveloped into a riviera including an office area. And faced with the emotion of the inhabitants of Cotonou, Minister Tonato is thinking of leaving a memorial symbol there. "Perhaps in the form of a small symbolic market, occupying one hectare of the 25 available, it is not excluded. I understand your concern, it will be done. "

Source: www.lespharaons.com