President John Dramani Mahama has directed the security services to deploy personnel to strategic locations in major markets across the country to address the rising incidents of fire outbreaks. This bold initiative underlines the government’s commitment to protecting the livelihoods of traders and ensuring the safety of market infrastructure, which forms a vital part of Ghana’s economy.
This directive follows a spate of devastating market fires, most notably the recent incident at Kantamanto Market in Accra, which caused significant financial losses for traders. The President visited the affected traders to express his condolences and solidarity, assuring them of the government’s determination to implement effective measures to prevent such disasters.
Speaking during the visit, President Mahama emphasized that the safety of Ghana’s markets is a national priority. He disclosed that the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has been instructed to position fire tenders at key markets, particularly during nighttime, to ensure rapid response to emergencies. According to the President, this measure is critical, as the suspicious pattern of fires occurring predominantly at night has raised concerns about possible acts of arson.
“We had a meeting with the security heads today to see how we can tighten security around the major markets to prevent any such occurrences from happening,” he explained. “In addition, we are asking the Ghana National Fire Service to deploy their fire tenders close to the markets at night, because these fires tend to happen at night, and that is what gives us reason to suspect there are people deliberately causing this.”
President Mahama expressed frustration with the recurring fires, noting that it is beyond comprehension how fires seem to occur only at night when markets are closed. He called on all stakeholders, including traders, market associations, and community members, to work together to uncover the root cause of the problem and prevent future incidents.
To further strengthen security, the President announced plans to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in major markets. The cameras will not only serve as a deterrent to potential arsonists but also aid in monitoring activities within markets and providing evidence in the event of an incident. This step is part of a broader initiative to modernize Ghana’s markets and ensure they are equipped to meet contemporary safety and security standards.
Traders at Kantamanto Market expressed gratitude for the President’s visit and welcomed the proposed measures. Many recounted the devastating impact of the fire on their businesses and livelihoods, with some losing all their goods and savings. They appealed for swift government intervention to assist them in rebuilding their lives and preventing future occurrences.
In addition to the immediate response measures, President Mahama outlined a comprehensive plan to address the underlying challenges contributing to market fires. The plan includes engaging stakeholders to improve fire safety awareness, providing training for traders on fire prevention techniques, and ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations in market infrastructure. The government is also exploring the possibility of establishing dedicated fire response units in markets identified as high-risk areas.
The President emphasized the importance of community vigilance in complementing government efforts. He urged traders and citizens to be proactive in reporting suspicious activities and adhering to fire safety guidelines. He also encouraged market associations to take ownership of safety initiatives, noting that collective responsibility is key to achieving lasting solutions.
Beyond security and fire prevention, the government is also committed to supporting traders affected by market fires. President Mahama assured the Kantamanto traders that efforts are underway to assess the extent of the damage and provide financial assistance to those affected. This support will include access to credit facilities, grants, and technical guidance to help traders rebuild and enhance the resilience of their businesses.
The recurring fires have drawn attention to the need for a more proactive approach to market management in Ghana. Experts have called for the integration of advanced fire detection and suppression systems in market designs, as well as regular maintenance of electrical installations to reduce the risk of electrical fires. The government is considering incorporating these recommendations into its plans for constructing and renovating markets nationwide.
President Mahama’s decisive actions have been widely applauded by stakeholders and the general public. Many view his leadership as a reflection of his commitment to safeguarding the interests of ordinary Ghanaians and addressing the challenges facing the nation head-on. The measures announced by the President are seen as a significant step toward restoring confidence in the safety and security of Ghana’s markets.
As the government works to implement these initiatives, it is calling on all stakeholders to play their part in ensuring their success. This includes market leaders, who are encouraged to enforce fire safety regulations and promote a culture of responsibility among traders. Community members are also urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
The Kantamanto Market fire is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by traders and the urgent need for sustained efforts to address these challenges. With President Mahama’s leadership and the active involvement of all stakeholders, there is hope that Ghana can overcome the threat of market fires and create a safer environment for traders and consumers alike.
In the long term, the government’s vision for Ghana’s markets extends beyond fire prevention. Plans are underway to modernize market infrastructure, improve sanitation, and enhance the overall trading experience. These efforts align with the government’s broader agenda of promoting economic growth, empowering local businesses, and improving the quality of life for all Ghanaians.
The deployment of security personnel, installation of CCTV cameras, and strategic positioning of fire tenders represent a holistic approach to addressing the issue of market fires. These measures, combined with community engagement and long-term planning, underscore the government’s commitment to protecting the livelihoods of traders and ensuring the sustainability of Ghana’s markets.
As Ghana moves forward with these initiatives, the success of the efforts will depend on the collective resolve of the nation. By working together, the country can turn the page on market fires and build a future where traders can operate in a safe and secure environment.
