Small-scale enterprises have set up operations around the Chale Wote Street Art Festival, hoping to take advantage of the large crowds expected at the event. Some are navigating challenges related to unclear pricing for business stands and conflicting information about the festival’s location.
In the Osu community, local residents have established food stalls in front of their homes to capitalize on the influx of visitors. However, external business operators are being charged up to GHC3,000 for a spot, with payments directed to the local assemblyman, Peter George.
Mr. George explained that the fees vary based on the scale of the business and cover the entire week of the festival. He noted that these fees grant vendors the right to operate within the festival zone throughout the event. Vendors who have already set up canopies are optimistic, recalling the significant profits they made during last year’s festival.
An information desk at Osu Castle has provided entry prices for festival attendees: GHC50 for locals, GHC100 for expatriates, and GHC30 for children aged 13 to 17. The festival’s daily schedule of activities are shared on its social media platforms. Weekday events, including street performances, are expected to be centered around Osu Castle. Meanwhile, vendors selling locally made products, including art, clothing, and food, will operate on the streets from the Independence Square entrance through Osu town, resulting in road closures on Saturday and Sunday.
