January 2025 witnessed a series of destructive fires that tore through key markets nationwide, raising pressing concerns about fire prevention and the urgent need for stronger safety protocols in trading hubs.These frequent outbreaks led to extensive property damage and disrupted the livelihoods of numerous traders.Below is a summary of the major market fires recorded during the month.

0

Kantamanto Market, AccraOn January 2, 2025, a raging fire swept through Kantamanto Market, one of the nation’s busiest secondhand clothing hubs.The inferno reduced multiple stalls to ashes, leaving many traders stranded and counting their losses.Preliminary reports indicate that faulty electrical wiring may have sparked the blaze, leading to widespread destruction.

1

Authorities, charitable organizations, and the government have since extended relief to affected traders.Kwadaso Wood Market, KumasiBarely two days later, on January 4, 2025, another fire broke out at the Kwadaso Wood Market in Kumasi, destroying timber and sawmill structures.Timely intervention by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) prevented further escalation, but traders suffered significant financial setbacks.

2

The exact cause of the fire remains undetermined, with investigations ongoing.Timber Market, TamaleOn January 6, 2025, a ferocious blaze erupted at the Timber Market in Tamale, consuming large sections of the marketplace.Firefighters battled to contain the flames, but much of the market was already reduced to debris.Efforts are underway to establish the cause of the disaster.

3

Techiman MarketA major fire engulfed the Techiman Central Market on January 12, 2025, gutting over 100 stalls and destroying goods worth millions of cedis.Despite efforts by the GNFS, the fire caused massive destruction, leaving many traders in distress.Kejetia Market, KumasiLater in the month, on January 24, 2025, a fire broke out at Kejetia Market in Kumasi, one of the largest trading centers in the Ashanti Region.

4

The flames consumed two shops, destroying valuable textiles and merchandise.Reports suggest the fire originated in a closed shop that had been abandoned for over a year before spreading to an adjacent store.The swift intervention of the GNFS helped contain the inferno before it could spread further.In response to the rising number of market fires, the GNFS rolled out new fire safety protocols aimed at preventing future outbreaks.

5

In a January 14, 2025, press release, the service announced measures including the deployment of fire officers and equipment to key markets between 6:00 PM and 6:00 AM daily to ensure 24-hour fire surveillance.Additionally, a specialized task force has been assigned to patrol markets and provide immediate response to potential fire incidents."The Chief Fire Officer, Julius A.

6

Kuunuor, has instructed that fire personnel and appliances be stationed at major markets nationwide from 1800 hours to 0600 hours daily to maintain round-the-clock fire vigilance," the statement noted.The GNFS further disclosed plans to establish permanent fire units at key trading centers to intensify fire safety education, conduct frequent inspections, and enforce compliance with fire prevention regulations.

7

Chief Fire Officer Kuunuor emphasized the importance of cooperation among traders, market authorities, and the general public in strengthening fire safety measures and reducing the frequency of market infernos.As January drew to a close, it became increasingly evident that prioritizing fire safety measures would be crucial in averting future disasters and preserving the nation’s commercial hubs.

8