A devastating fire broke out at Kantamanto Market in Accra’s Central Business District during the early hours of Thursday, January 2, 2025. The fire, which began around 1:00 AM, spread rapidly across the market, destroying over 100 shops and displacing hundreds of traders.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) swiftly mobilized thirteen fire trucks from various stations across the city to fight the blaze. However, Fire Service spokesperson ADO1 Alex King Nartey ,speaking to JoyNews described the situation as “very serious.” He explained that although firefighters initially managed to douse the flames, their efforts were hindered by the unavailability of a fire hydrant and the depletion of their water supply, which allowed the fire to reignite. Despite the intensity of the fire, Nartey confirmed that there had been no reports of severe casualties so far. However, he cautioned that extinguishing the fire could take up to two days due to its scale and the challenging conditions on the ground.
Eyewitnesses and traders, desperate to save their businesses, joined the firefighting efforts, but the fire proved too overwhelming to control. Some traders have raised suspicions of foul play, suggesting political motives behind the fire. Authorities have confirmed that investigations are underway to determine its cause.
The affected traders are urgently calling for support to rebuild their businesses and prevent such tragedies in the future. The GNFS has reassured the public that they are doing everything possible to bring the situation under control and assist the displaced traders.
This tragic event has reignited concerns about the recurring fires at Kantamanto Market and emphasized the need for improved safety measures and infrastructure to protect the livelihoods of traders and the surrounding community.
More than 100 shops have been destroyed in the Kantamanto market area due to a fire outbreak that occurred around 1:00 AM on Thursday.
The Ghana National Fire Service reported that they dispatched 13 fire trucks across Accra to combat the early morning blaze, which was located… pic.twitter.com/3vgfw5Tsj0
— #TV3GH (@tv3_ghana) January 2, 2025
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