Easing of lockdown a relief to Ghana’s poor – despite fears it is premature

As Accra and Kumasi's markets and shops reopen, government defends decision to partially lift coronavirus restrictions

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Since the sudden easing of a three-week lockdown in Ghana's two major cities, Accra and Kumasi, daily life is gradually returning to normal.

Markets and commercial districts that had ground to an eerie halt have buzzed back to life. Stores and banks have slowly reopened. Modest traffic jams have emerged as many people who had escaped the lockdown return to the cities. But schools, places of worship, restaurants and bars remain shut.