The Tamale Timber Market has been severely damaged by a massive fire, becoming the latest market to be engulfed in flames in less than a week into the new year.
The fire, which broke out late Monday night, caused widespread destruction and left traders in shock, marking yet another setback for the country’s already strained market economy.
The Ghana National Fire Service responded swiftly, but despite their efforts, a significant portion of the market was destroyed before the fire was brought under control. Firefighters struggled with limited access to water and the difficulty of navigating the cramped and congested market layout during the operation.
A devastating fire razed through the Aboabo Timber Market in Tamale in the late hours of yesterday, destroying timber products worth millions of cedis.
The Northern regional fire command however disclosed challenges in the fight against the fire as the GWCL had closed off all… pic.twitter.com/DC9ymmfLlW
— SIKAOFFICIAL🦍 (@SIKAOFFICIAL1) January 7, 2025
While investigations are ongoing, the cause of the fire remains undetermined. This incident follows recent fires at the Kantamanto Market in Accra and Kwadaso Wood Market in Kumasi, both of which caused massive losses to traders. In Kantamanto, a large section of the market was destroyed, while Kumasi reported extensive property damage.
Authorities believe that electrical faults, poor wiring, and the improper storage of flammable materials may have contributed to these incidents, with many traders still reeling from the aftermath. The lack of insurance for many market vendors has exacerbated the financial burden, leaving them with little support for recovery.
State of Kantamanto Market following the devastating fire outbreak#Tigpost
Kantamanto | Breaking News | High Court | Akan pic.twitter.com/oFzwyrksPA— TIG Post (@tigpost_) January 2, 2025
The destruction of the Tamale Timber Market, a vital source of construction materials in northern Ghana, is expected to cause supply shortages and price increases in the region. This wave of market fires has intensified concerns over fire safety in commercial areas, prompting calls from civil society groups and traders for urgent reforms, including routine fire safety audits, the installation of fire hydrants, and the upgrading of market infrastructure to include better wiring and fire-resistant materials.
