President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has extended heartfelt sympathy to the thousands of traders who lost their goods and livelihoods in the devastating fire that ravaged Kantamanto Market in the Greater Accra Region. The tragedy, which occurred in the early hours of January 2, 2025, reduced the bustling market to ashes, leaving many traders in distress and despair.
Speaking during his final State of the Nation Address to Parliament on January 3, 2025, the President acknowledged the profound impact of the incident on the affected traders and their families. He expressed his sorrow over the tragedy and emphasized the government’s commitment to providing the necessary support to help the victims rebuild their lives and businesses.
“I am deeply saddened by the devastating fire at Kantamanto Market. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, and I extend heartfelt sympathies to the hardworking traders who have lost their goods and investments,” the President stated.
The fire, which tore through countless stalls and shops, has been described as one of the most devastating incidents in the market’s history. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide array of goods, Kantamanto Market has been a cornerstone of trade and commerce in Accra for decades. The destruction has left a gaping hole in the lives of the traders, many of whom had invested their life savings into their businesses.
The aftermath of the fire presented scenes of heartbreak and chaos. Traders, overwhelmed with grief, sifted through the charred remains of their stalls, desperately hoping to salvage anything of value. The extent of the damage was severe, with most goods completely destroyed, leaving traders without the means to resume their businesses.
President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the challenges faced by the traders and called on all Ghanaians to come together in solidarity to support those affected. He emphasized that the tragedy was not just a loss for the traders but for the entire nation, given the central role the market plays in Ghana’s economy.
“This is a difficult time for our brothers and sisters at Kantamanto, and it is a moment for us as a nation to stand together. I urge all Ghanaians to extend their support to the affected traders during this challenging period,” the President said.
In addition to the expressions of sympathy, the government has pledged to launch a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire. President Akufo-Addo assured the public that measures would be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. The investigation will seek to uncover the circumstances that led to the fire and to identify any lapses in safety protocols that may have contributed to the disaster.
The President also highlighted the importance of creating a more resilient and safer trading environment for Ghana’s markets. He underscored the need for improved infrastructure, better fire safety measures, and enhanced support systems to protect traders and their investments.
“We must ensure that our markets are safe spaces for trade and commerce. The government will work with relevant stakeholders to improve market infrastructure and fire prevention measures,” he affirmed.
As part of the recovery efforts, the government has committed to providing financial and logistical assistance to the affected traders. While the details of the support package are yet to be announced, President Akufo-Addo assured the traders that the government would prioritize their needs in the rebuilding process. He expressed confidence that with the collective efforts of the government, stakeholders, and the traders themselves, Kantamanto Market would rise from the ashes stronger and more vibrant.
The tragedy at Kantamanto has also drawn attention to the broader challenges faced by traders across the country. Markets are vital economic hubs, yet many operate under precarious conditions, with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to resources. The fire has reignited calls for comprehensive reforms to address these issues and to create a more secure and sustainable environment for traders.
In his address, President Akufo-Addo reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, which form the backbone of Ghana’s economy. He stressed that the government’s efforts to rebuild Kantamanto Market would be part of a broader strategy to enhance the resilience of the country’s trading sector.
“The hardworking traders at Kantamanto are a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of Ghanaians. We owe it to them to not only rebuild but to build better. Let this tragedy serve as a turning point for the improvement of all our markets,” he stated.
The President concluded his remarks with a message of hope and resilience, urging the affected traders to remain steadfast in the face of adversity. He assured them that the government would stand by them every step of the way as they rebuild their lives and businesses.
As Ghanaians continue to grapple with the aftermath of the Kantamanto fire, the outpouring of support from individuals, organizations, and the government serves as a reminder of the nation’s enduring spirit of solidarity. The road to recovery will be challenging, but with collective efforts, Kantamanto Market can once again thrive as a hub of trade and commerce.
