The Minister for Local Government and Chieftaincy, Ibrahim Ahmed, has outlined a series of measures to address fire incidents in markets across Ghana following the recent devastating blaze at Kantamanto.
Speaking before Parliament, the minister described the January 2, 2025, fire as a major disaster that “ravaged large sections of the market, affecting hundreds of traders and destroying one of the most vital and vibrant commercial hubs in Accra.”
He revealed that, in response, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has swiftly cleared debris and assessed the damage, while collaborating with key stakeholders to enhance fire safety measures in the reconstructed sections of the market.
“AMA, in collaboration with the Ghana Fire Service, intends to incorporate fire safety features such as fire extinguishers and smoke detectors to enable early detection and swift response to potential fire outbreaks,” Mr. Ahmed announced.
Additionally, he disclosed that the AMA will install functional fire hydrants within the market space for efficient firefighting operations and establish unobstructed access routes to facilitate emergency response.
Recognizing the role of electrical faults in market fires, he stated: “AMA is expected to collaborate with the Electricity Company of Ghana to conduct routine assessments and periodic inspections of electrical systems as well as structural components to identify and rectify potential hazards promptly.”
The minister also addressed the destruction at Kwadaso Wood Village Market, which was completely razed by fire. He noted that the site, originally an old dumping ground, will undergo soil stabilization before redevelopment.
“The Kwadaso Municipal Assembly has been instructed to embark on a soil stabilization exercise and come up with a redevelopment plan for a well-designed wood market, incorporating improved internal access roads, fire hydrants, a fire station, and a security post,” he stated.
Acknowledging the massive losses suffered by affected traders, Mr. Ahmed pledged government support. “My checks further revealed that the affected persons lost assets such as materials on sale, machinery, and sheds worth millions of Ghana cedis. In this regard, I will ensure that an assessment of the damage caused is carried out and facilitate support for the affected persons to get back to business,” he assured.
In the interim, he directed the Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council to release DRIP machines to level the grounds, paving the way for shed redevelopment by traders.
Emphasizing the importance of fire prevention, he concluded: “Educating traders in our markets across the country can play an important role in mitigating the risk of fire outbreaks. We will direct all MMDAs to collaborate with the Ghana National Fire Service to organize periodic stakeholder engagements and educational campaigns for traders on fire prevention strategies, proper use of firefighting equipment, and emergency response procedures.”
The government’s proactive approach aims to prevent future market fires and ensure that traders can operate in a safer, more secure environment.
