Traders affected by the recent fire outbreak
at Adum PZ in Kumasi have taken to the streets to protest against plans by the
Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and the National Disaster Management
Organization (NADMO) to relocate them from the Blue Light Arena market area.
People & LifestyleAdum fire victims
protest KMA and NADMO’s redevelopment plansPublished 9 minutes ago on March 24,
2025By Emmanuel Sarpong
Traders affected by the recent fire outbreak
at Adum PZ in Kumasi have taken to the streets to protest against plans by the
Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) and the National Disaster Management
Organization (NADMO) to relocate them from the Blue Light Arena market area.
Authorities had instructed the traders to
vacate the premises to allow for the construction of a new lorry terminal and a
modernized market space. However, several traders, particularly young business
owners, have opposed the decision, insisting they should be allowed to rebuild
the market themselves.
The demonstrators expressed their frustration
over what they described as a lack of consultation, arguing that the planned
relocation would disrupt their businesses and livelihoods. They called on
officials to reconsider their decision and permit them to restore their shops
without interference.
Meanwhile, KMA and NADMO have defended the
proposed redevelopment, emphasizing that it is intended to enhance
accessibility, improve safety, and prevent future disasters.
Assurance from NADMO
In response to concerns raised by traders,
Ahmed-Rufai Afarahim, Deputy Director General of NADMO, reassured affected shop
owners that their stores would not be taken from them after the site is cleared
for reconstruction.
Speaking at the scene where debris was being
cleared, he addressed rumors circulating on social media that original shop
owners would lose their spaces. “The claims are unfounded,” he stated, urging
traders to disregard the speculations.
“No one will lose their shops,” he assured,
emphasizing that NADMO’s focus is to support the affected individuals and
ensure a smooth recovery process.
Government’s Support
Mr. Kwesi Ofori Agyemang, a former Municipal
Chief Executive for Obuasi, speaking on behalf of the Ashanti Regional
Minister, also assured the traders of government’s commitment to providing
assistance.
The devastating fire, which broke out in the
early hours of Friday, caused extensive damage to buildings and merchandise
belonging to approximately 3,000 traders. However, the swift intervention of
the Ghana National Fire Service prevented it from spreading to nearby
structures.
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