Traders at the Kantamanto Market have begun reconstructing their burnt shops with wooden structures, taking matters into their own hands without waiting for government assistance following the devastating fire outbreak.
The traders, who have started clearing debris from the site, have called on the government to assist in the rebuilding process after the massive blaze that erupted at dawn on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
Kantamanto market sellers are rebuilding their burnt shops with wooden structures without waiting for government help. We wish them good luck. pic.twitter.com/OMeTU2UKZg
— BIG KAY🇬🇭 (@OfficialBigkay) January 4, 2025
The fire destroyed over 7,000 shops, seriously injuring 14 people and affecting more than 30,000 traders. Efforts to control the fire were delayed due to water shortages and logistical challenges, leading to significant losses.
Chairman of the Kantamanto Traders Association, Samuel Amoah, described the situation as devastating and appealed for swift government intervention.
“Many traders have lost both their homes and livelihoods, and their only hope is to be allowed to return and work peacefully,” Mr. Amoah said in an interview with JoyNews.
President Nana Akufo-Addo, during his final State of the Nation Address on Friday, January 3, extended his condolences to the victims, acknowledging the severe impact on the affected traders.
“The incident is deeply shocking,” the President remarked, expressing solidarity with those affected and assuring them of the government’s support in their recovery efforts.
Meanwhile, Nana Kwame Bediako, leader of The New Force, has donated GHC 50,000 to assist the traders as they work to rebuild their market and livelihoods.
Cheddar [Nana Kwame Bediako] has donated GHc 50,000 to support Kantamanto traders affected by the devastating fire. #CitiNewsroom #KantamantoFire pic.twitter.com/ArDwpVQzvs
— CITI FM 97.3 (@Citi973) January 3, 2025
