The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has raised alarms over the failure of several local assemblies to implement fire prevention recommendations, despite ongoing efforts to curb fire outbreaks across the country.
This concern follows a tragic fire that ravaged Accra’s Kantamanto Market in the early hours of January 2, 2025. The blaze, which swept through the bustling market, left traders devastated as they watched their goods and livelihoods reduced to ashes. Kantamanto, known for its vibrant trading activities, has now joined the list of markets repeatedly impacted by fire incidents in recent years.
Speaking on Eyewitness News, ADO1 Alex King Nartey from GNFS expressed frustration about the lack of adherence to their fire prevention advice. He noted that the service consistently conducts investigations after fire outbreaks and provides tailored recommendations to avert future occurrences. However, many assemblies fail to act on these guidelines.
“After every fire investigation, we provide actionable recommendations aimed at reducing the risk of such disasters. Unfortunately, many assemblies do not prioritize implementing these measures. This lack of action significantly contributes to the recurrence of devastating fires,” Nartey remarked.
Using Kaneshie Market as a positive example, he highlighted how adhering to GNFS recommendations has helped the market avoid major fire incidents since its last fire. "Kaneshie Market implemented our recommendations, and we haven’t had reports of any fire outbreaks there for a long time," he said.
Nartey emphasized the need for proactive measures, especially in high-risk areas like Kantamanto. He proposed the establishment of a fire post within such markets to enable rapid response and routine inspections. “Having a fire post would ensure officers can identify and mitigate fire risks early. This setup could prevent minor fires from escalating into large-scale disasters,” he added.
The GNFS has consistently called on assemblies to prioritize fire prevention through proper market planning, enforcement of safety regulations, and the creation of fire posts in vulnerable areas. Yet, these appeals often fall on deaf ears.
The recurring fires in major markets across Ghana have had devastating economic and social impacts. Traders lose not only their investments but also their means of supporting their families, leaving communities in turmoil. The GNFS believes that collaborative efforts between fire officials and local assemblies are critical to breaking this cycle.
As the Kantamanto Market rebuilds from the ashes, the GNFS urges all stakeholders to take decisive action to safeguard lives and property, ensuring that tragedies like this become a thing of the past.
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