Kantamanto Market was left in ruins early Thursday morning, January 2, 2025, after a devastating fire engulfed the area, destroying over 100 shops.
The fire, which started around 1:00 a.m., wreaked havoc on the busy commercial center, leaving traders to assess the extent of their losses.
In response to the emergency, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) quickly deployed 13 fire tenders from various locations across Accra to battle the blaze. Firefighters worked tirelessly for hours and successfully brought the fire under control by morning.
“We mobilized additional fire tenders from Circle, Trade Fair, and Dansoman to assist in extinguishing the flames,” a spokesperson for the GNFS reported. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) was also called to disconnect power to the area, ensuring the safety of both the public and the firefighting teams.
Although no casualties were reported, the financial impact on the affected traders is expected to be severe.
The cause of the fire remains unclear, and investigations have been launched to determine its origin. The GNFS has urged the public to take extra precautions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Kantamanto Market, known for its bustling trade in secondhand clothing and various goods, is a crucial livelihood source for many local vendors. This fire adds to the growing concerns about fire safety in major markets across the country.
Authorities are currently assessing the damage and will provide further updates as their investigation unfolds.
