Fire ravages Kantamanto market, over 100 Shops destroyed
In the early hours of January 2, 2025, a devastating fire swept through Accra’s Kantamanto Market, reducing over 100 shops to ashes and leaving hundreds of traders in despair. The blaze, which started around 1:00 a.m., spread rapidly, fueled by flammable materials used in the market’s construction.
The Ghana National Fire Service responded with 13 fire tenders from various stations across the Greater Accra Region. However, challenges such as the unavailability of nearby fire hydrants and the intensity of the fire made containment difficult. Despite their efforts, the market sustained significant damage.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with traders frantically trying to salvage their goods. Many, who had invested their life savings in their businesses, sifted through the charred remains of their stalls, searching for anything of value. The air was filled with smoke, the acrid smell of burned materials, and the sound of traders grieving their losses.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. This incident is the latest in a series of fires that have plagued Kantamanto Market in recent years, sparking concerns about safety measures and infrastructure in Accra’s trading hubs.
By: Linda Akite
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