Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has visited the site of last Friday’s devastating fire at Adum in Kumasi, offering words of comfort and tangible support to traders who lost their businesses in the inferno.
The fire, which erupted in the early hours of March 21, destroyed dozens of shops and goods worth millions of Ghana cedis, leaving many traders in distress. The destruction was so severe that some business owners were left with nothing but ashes, raising concerns about how they would recover from the tragedy.
Dr. Bawumia’s Visit and Traders’ Appeal
During his visit to the affected area, Dr. Bawumia met with traders whose shops were consumed by the flames. The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as some traders broke down in tears while recounting their losses. Many of them had spent years building their businesses, only to see everything vanish overnight.
A trader who lost her fabric shop lamented, “I have worked hard for over 15 years to grow my business, and now I have nothing left. How do I start again?”
Another trader, who sold electrical appliances, expressed similar frustration. “All my goods were destroyed. I had just restocked, and now everything is gone. I have nowhere to turn,” he said.
The traders pleaded for assistance from the government, corporate institutions, and individuals to help them rebuild their businesses.
Dr. Bawumia’s Response and Call for Investigation
In response to their distress, Dr. Bawumia expressed his deepest sympathies and urged patience as investigations into the cause of the fire continued. He emphasized the importance of determining what led to the inferno to prevent such occurrences in the future.
“We have to wait on the investigation by the Ghana National Fire Service, and then we can determine the cause of the fire so that next time we can prevent it,” he stated.
He assured the affected traders that their concerns had been noted and encouraged them to remain strong in these difficult times.
Appeal for Market Project Completion
Beyond his immediate support, Dr. Bawumia used the occasion to appeal to the government to expedite the completion of the Kejetia Central Market Phase II project, which he noted was about 80% complete when the New Patriotic Party (NPP) left office. He argued that the completion of this market would provide a more secure and modern trading space for the affected traders.
“I also want to appeal to the government to complete Phase II of the Kejetia Central Market, which was about 80% complete at the time we left office. We believe that when it is completed, it will greatly benefit the traders here,” he stated.
Many traders welcomed this call, noting that the new market’s facilities could help prevent future disasters by providing safer electrical installations, better spacing, and improved fire safety measures.
Commendation for Firefighters
Dr. Bawumia also commended the Ghana National Fire Service personnel who battled the blaze, stating that their swift intervention helped contain the fire and prevent further destruction.
“I want to commend the efforts of the fire service personnel. They have done their best to contain the fire. I heard about two fire personnel who have been admitted to the hospital, and we wish them a speedy recovery,” he said.
The bravery and dedication of the firefighters were evident in their efforts, as they worked tirelessly to douse the flames despite the intensity of the fire. Some firefighters sustained injuries in the process, further highlighting the risks they faced in carrying out their duties.
Support from Party Officials
Accompanying Dr. Bawumia on the visit was the Regional Chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Bernard Antwi Boasiako, popularly known as Chairman Wontumi, along with other party officials. Their presence reinforced the commitment of the NPP leadership to supporting the affected traders and finding long-term solutions to challenges facing market traders in Kumasi and beyond.
Chairman Wontumi assured the traders that the party would do everything possible to assist them in their recovery process. “This is not just about politics; it is about supporting our fellow Ghanaians in need. We will work together to see how we can help you get back on your feet,” he stated.
Way Forward: Calls for Support and Preventive Measures
Following Dr. Bawumia’s visit, there have been renewed calls for support from both the government and private sector. Many individuals and organizations have expressed interest in contributing towards relief efforts for the affected traders.
Financial institutions have also been urged to consider flexible loan packages to help traders restock their businesses, while insurance companies are being encouraged to provide accessible policies that can protect traders from such unforeseen disasters in the future.
Experts have advised market traders to invest in fire prevention measures, including regular electrical maintenance, fire extinguishers, and adherence to safety regulations. The Ghana National Fire Service has also been urged to intensify fire safety education in major markets across the country to minimize the risk of future incidents.
Hope Amidst the Crisis
Despite the devastation caused by the fire, there is hope that with collective support, the affected traders will be able to rebuild their businesses and restore their livelihoods. Dr. Bawumia’s visit and his call for the completion of the Kejetia Market project have given traders a renewed sense of optimism about the future.
As rebuilding efforts begin, traders are looking forward to assistance from both the government and private individuals to help them recover from the setback. The focus now is on ensuring that those who lost everything receive the support they need to start over.
With unity and support from the community, the Adum business district can rise again, serving as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity.
