Fire Outbreak At Kantamanto Market

Fire Outbreak At Kantamanto Market – In the early hours of January 2, 2025, a massive fire swept through Kantamanto Market in Accra, Ghana. Known as a major hub for secondhand clothing and other goods, the market suffered extensive destruction, with over 100 shops reduced to ashes. The financial loss is estimated to run into millions of cedis.

Fire Outbreak At Kantamanto Market

The fire reportedly began around 1:19 a.m., rapidly spreading and consuming nearby structures, including the Ghana Commercial Bank building. Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) acted swiftly, while the Electricity Company of Ghana shut down power to the area to assist the response. Despite these efforts, the damage was severe, and the exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.

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For the traders, the incident was nothing short of catastrophic. Many lost their entire stock and livelihoods. One affected trader, Joshua Tetteh, lamented, “I have lost everything. I took out a loan to sustain my business, and now it’s all gone.”

In a show of solidarity, Nana Kwame Bediako, a philanthropist and founder of the New Force Movement, visited the site and donated GHC 50,000 to support those affected. He also urged the government to establish insurance schemes to protect small businesses against such tragedies.

President Nana Akufo-Addo expressed his condolences to the victims, stating, “This is a heartbreaking moment. My government will do everything possible to support rebuilding efforts and assist those impacted.”

The fire highlights the vulnerability of Ghana’s informal sector and the urgent need for improved safety measures and support systems to prevent similar disasters in the future. As the nation mourns this loss, the hope remains that the traders will receive the assistance required to rebuild their lives.

Last Updated on March 16, 2025 by samboad