Kantamanto market was the scene of devastation early Thursday morning, January 2, 2025, when a massive fire broke out, destroying more than 100 shops.
The blaze, which started around 1:00 a.m., caused significant damage to the commercial hub, leaving traders counting their losses.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded swiftly to the emergency, dispatching 13 fire tenders from various parts of Accra to combat the flames.
Firefighters battled the inferno for hours and successfully brought it under control later in the morning.
“We mobilized additional fire tenders from Circle, Trade Fair, and Dansoman to assist in fighting the fire,” a GNFS spokesperson stated. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) was also called upon to cut power supply to the area to ensure safety and facilitate firefighting efforts.
Thankfully, no casualties were reported, though the financial toll on affected traders is expected to be substantial.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, and authorities have launched an investigation to determine the origin of the blaze. The GNFS has urged the public to exercise caution to prevent such incidents in the future.
Kantamanto market, known for its vibrant trade in secondhand clothing and other goods, is a lifeline for many local traders. The fire is the latest in a series of incidents that have raised concerns about fire safety in major markets across Ghana.
Authorities are assessing the extent of the damage and are expected to provide updates as investigations progress.
