Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has significantly aided traders affected by a recent devastating fire at the Kantamanto Market in Accra. His generous contributions include a donation of 250 packets of roofing sheets, totaling 5,000 pieces, along with ridge caps to support the traders in rebuilding their businesses. The donation was presented on his behalf by Daniel Nii Kwartei Titus Glover, the former Greater Accra Regional Minister, accompanied by his team.
This latest donation builds upon Dr. Bawumia’s earlier financial contribution of GH¢200,000, aimed at assisting the traders in their recovery efforts following the disaster that severely impacted their livelihoods. The fire, which occurred in January 2025, destroyed a significant portion of the market, leading to substantial losses for many traders who depend on their businesses for income.
During the donation presentation, Titus Glover emphasized the urgent need for traders to secure insurance to protect against future disasters. He highlighted the increasing frequency of such incidents and stressed the necessity of proactive measures to safeguard their livelihoods and investments.
“I want to remind the traders of what His Excellency the Vice President said during his visit—that they should take insurance very seriously. As these infernos have become more common, it is crucial that they secure insurance coverage for their activities here,” Titus Glover stated. His remarks serve as a crucial reminder for the traders, urging them to prioritize their financial security and prepare for unforeseen events.
Additionally, Glover announced Dr. Bawumia’s commitment to providing further security measures, including the installation of CCTV cameras once the market’s reconstruction is complete. This initiative aims to enhance security within the market, offering an additional layer of protection against potential threats and ensuring traders can operate with confidence.
“Security is also paramount,” Titus Glover added. “There is a need for the traders to establish their internal security arrangements. He promised that when the reconstruction is done, he will support them with CCTV cameras—‘the silent police’—to monitor activities in the market.” This proactive approach reflects Dr. Bawumia’s dedication to not only assisting in the immediate recovery but also fostering a safer environment for traders in the long term.
The response from the traders has been overwhelmingly positive. Yaw Sarpong, the Financial Secretary of the Kantamanto Market, expressed immense gratitude for Dr. Bawumia’s generous donation and ongoing support. He praised the former Vice President’s commitment to helping the traders rebuild their businesses after the devastating fire.
“He came here and presented an amount of GH¢200,000 to us, which was very generous. We thought he would not come again, but fortunately, he has returned with 250 packets of iron sheets, which are more than sufficient to roof our structure. We thank him so much,” Sarpong remarked. His words encapsulate the relief and appreciation felt by the traders as they begin the challenging process of rebuilding their lives.
The fire at Kantamanto Market has highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures and infrastructure within the market. The significant loss suffered by the traders serves as a wake-up call for local authorities and stakeholders to prioritize the safety and security of market spaces.
Dr. Bawumia’s support has been commended across various sectors as a demonstration of compassionate leadership and a commitment to community welfare. His actions serve as an inspiring example of how individuals in positions of power can make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by disasters.
Furthermore, the donations from Dr. Bawumia are expected to provide crucial relief, allowing traders to resume their operations more swiftly. The roofing sheets and financial aid will play a vital role in reconstructing the market’s infrastructure, ensuring that these entrepreneurs can get back to their livelihoods as quickly as possible.
The commitment to install CCTV cameras further illustrates a forward-thinking approach to market security. This enhancement will not only deter criminal activities but also instill confidence in both traders and customers, fostering a more secure shopping environment.
As reconstruction efforts continue, the traders remain hopeful for a brighter future, buoyed by the generous contributions and support from Dr. Bawumia. His involvement has sparked a renewed sense of community and resilience among the traders, motivating them to work together to restore their market to its former glory.
Looking ahead, it is essential for the traders to adopt a proactive stance towards their business security by considering insurance and establishing effective internal security measures. These steps will help mitigate the impacts of future disasters, ensuring their livelihoods remain protected.
In conclusion, Dr. Bawumia’s unwavering support for the Kantamanto Market traders serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community solidarity in times of crisis. His financial contributions, coupled with his commitment to enhancing security measures, not only address immediate needs but also set a foundation for sustainable recovery and resilience. The traders of Kantamanto Market can move forward with renewed hope, knowing they are not alone in their journey to rebuild and thrive.
