The government has extended its support to victims of the devastating Kantamanto Market fire in Accra by donating one million cedis. The fire, which occurred on January 2, 2025, destroyed more than 7,000 shops and affected over 30,000 traders, leaving many livelihoods in jeopardy.
This donation fulfills a pledge made by President John Dramani Mahama after the Kantamanto Traders Association, representing 13 groups, paid him a courtesy visit shortly after he assumed office.
In the weeks following the disaster, the government, led by the Chief of Staff and senior officials, met with the affected traders to officially present the compensation on behalf of the President. The donation is aimed at providing immediate relief to those whose businesses were severely impacted by the fire, which caused widespread losses for traders dealing in used clothes and other goods.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the recovery process and announced plans to rebuild the Kantamanto Market into a modern, multi-purpose facility. This initiative is expected to transform the market into a more resilient and business-friendly environment that will enhance the operations of traders and provide improved safety measures.
During the meeting, the Chief of Staff emphasized the importance of engaging in dialogue to finalize plans for the reconstruction. He highlighted the need to redesign the market enclave to ensure better accessibility, improve security measures, and create provisions for rapid emergency response. This, he noted, would help prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of traders and their goods.
The Chairman of the Kantamanto Traders Association, Rev. Opoku Afreh, expressed gratitude on behalf of the affected traders for the government’s swift response and support. He acknowledged the efforts of President Mahama and his administration in addressing the immediate needs of those impacted by the fire. Rev. Afreh also disclosed ongoing negotiations with Access Bank to secure a $100 million loan to finance the construction of a state-of-the-art market. The proposed facility aims to accommodate the needs of traders while incorporating modern infrastructure and safety features.
Despite the progress being made, Rev. Afreh appealed for the government’s intervention to resolve a land dispute involving the affected area. He noted that the dispute poses a significant challenge to the reconstruction efforts and urged authorities to expedite measures to address the issue. The successful resolution of the dispute, he added, would pave the way for the smooth implementation of plans to rebuild the market and restore the livelihoods of traders.
The Kantamanto Market fire has been one of the most devastating incidents to hit Accra in recent years, with traders losing goods worth millions of cedis. The government’s swift response and commitment to rebuilding the market have brought hope to many affected individuals, who are now looking forward to the realization of a modern trading facility.
The planned redevelopment of Kantamanto Market is expected to bring significant benefits to traders and the local economy. By providing a safer and more organized space, the new market will enhance business operations and create a more conducive environment for trade. Additionally, the incorporation of modern facilities will attract more customers and investors, contributing to the economic growth of the area.
President Mahama’s decision to prioritize the welfare of the affected traders underscores his administration’s dedication to addressing the challenges faced by Ghanaians in times of crisis. The one million cedi donation represents not only financial support but also a commitment to rebuilding the confidence of traders and ensuring that they have the necessary resources to recover from their losses.
As efforts to rebuild the Kantamanto Market continue, the government remains engaged with stakeholders to ensure that the reconstruction process is inclusive and transparent. The involvement of traders, financial institutions, and other key players is critical to the success of this initiative, which aims to create a market that meets the needs of all users.
The tragedy of the Kantamanto Market fire serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and preparedness in public spaces. The government’s plans to redesign the market to include improved access and security measures reflect a proactive approach to mitigating the risk of future disasters. This forward-thinking strategy is expected to set a new standard for market infrastructure in Ghana and provide a model for other regions to follow.
The support provided by the government and the collaborative efforts of traders and financial institutions highlight the resilience and determination of Ghanaians to overcome adversity. The Kantamanto Market fire may have caused significant losses, but the commitment to rebuilding and improving the market demonstrates a shared vision for a brighter future.
As the rebuilding process takes shape, the affected traders and their families can look forward to a market that not only restores their livelihoods but also enhances their quality of life. The government’s dedication to addressing their needs and creating a safer, more efficient trading environment is a testament to its commitment to the welfare of all Ghanaians.
With plans underway and support from both the government and financial partners, the transformation of Kantamanto Market is poised to become a symbol of recovery and progress. The one million cedi donation is just the beginning of a comprehensive effort to rebuild lives and strengthen the local economy. Through collective action and sustained commitment, the Kantamanto Market will rise from the ashes, providing a beacon of hope and resilience for all.
