ACCRA: A devastating fire swept through Kantamanto Market on Wednesday evening, destroying hundreds of shops and leaving traders grappling with significant financial losses. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) has urged affected traders to remain hopeful as it coordinates recovery efforts.
According to Ghana News Agency, Richard Amo Yartey, Director of Inspectorate at NADMO, expressed sympathy for the traders during a site visit on Thursday. He emphasized the necessity of maintaining faith during these challenging times and assured traders of NADMO's commitment to assist them in rebuilding their lives.
"It's quite unfortunate that this happened at a time when we should be celebrating the New Year, but this is not the end of life. We are doing our best to support those affected and ensure they get back on their feet," Mr. Yartey stated.
The fire, which began on Wednesday evening, ravaged a significant portion of the market, causing damage worth millions of Ghana cedis. Traders have been seen sifting through the debris, with some attributing the fire to possible arson.
Mr. Yartey revealed that NADMO has begun assessing the damage and registering those affected to identify their specific needs. He assured the community of a transparent process, with the involvement of the Traders Association leadership.
"We are setting up a desk for registration and assessment. Once we gather all the necessary information, we will develop an action plan to help them recover. While it's difficult to provide timelines, we have already started work," he added.
Amidst the ruins, some traders were attempting to extinguish lingering flames, while others assessed their losses. Kwabena Charles, a trader in second-hand shoes, recounted the moment he learned of the disaster.
"I was home at Abeka when one of my workers called, telling me to come to the market quickly. By the time I arrived at 0300 hours, everything was burnt," he lamented, expressing frustration over the fire service's response.
Having lost goods valued at nearly 500 million Ghana cedis, Charles and many others are appealing for government and organizational support to rebuild. As investigations into the fire's cause continue, NADMO has called for calm and pledged to ensure aid reaches those in dire need.
Fire outbreaks at the Kantamanto market have become an annual occurrence, adding to the community's distress.
