Bryan Acheampong Pledges Reconstruction of Adum Market, Announces GH¢500,000 Support for Kantamanto Fire Victims
Hon. Dr Bryan Acheampong, Member of Parliament for Abetifi, has pledged to spearhead the complete reconstruction of the fire-ravaged Adum Market in Kumasi and announced an additional GH¢500,000 in support for traders affected by the recent Kantamanto Market fire in Accra, as part of a broader national call for safer, modern market infrastructure.
The visit, which took place on Tuesday, April 22, follows a fire outbreak that destroyed a large section of Adum Market—one of the busiest commercial centres in the Ashanti Region. Dozens of shops were reduced to ashes, leaving traders without goods, capital, or a place to do business.
Dr Acheampong, accompanied by sitting and former Members of Parliament and national, regional, and constituency executives of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), donated GH¢300,000 in direct financial relief to the affected Adum traders. He also made a public commitment to lead efforts to reconstruct the market into a modern, safe, and resilient trading environment.
“Adum will rise again. This market must be rebuilt—not patched—and if given the opportunity, I will lead that process to make it safer, modern and dignified,” he said during a community address.
He added that the new market would include proper fire safety systems, regulated electrical infrastructure, escape routes, and modern building materials to prevent future incidents.
While addressing the crowd, Dr Acheampong also announced a GH¢500,000 support package for traders affected by the Kantamanto Market fire in Accra, which occurred just days before the Adum incident.
“Our traders are the backbone of Ghana’s economy. Whether in Kumasi or Accra, they deserve our protection. This support is just a start—but we must commit to long-term infrastructure reforms across the country,” he stated.
The dual announcements position Dr Acheampong as one of the few national figures responding with immediate aid and a forward-looking infrastructure agenda amid a concerning trend of market fires.
Local leaders and stakeholders welcomed the gesture, noting its significance beyond politics. Nana Kwaku Asante, a senior trader at Adum, remarked:
“It’s been a long time since someone came not just to sympathise but with a plan. We need this reconstruction—not just donations.”
Recent market fires—including those at Makola, Kantamanto, and now Adum—have reignited national discussions around outdated market infrastructure, crowding, and poor electrical safety. Many analysts argue that unless major investments are made in redesigning these spaces, the cycle of destruction will continue.
For the affected traders, however, Dr Acheampong’s visit and his twin pledges offer more than material support—they signal the possibility of a new chapter in how Ghana treats its commercial spaces and those who power its market economy.
