Ghana’s National Fire Service (GNFS) has urged authorities overseeing Kantamanto Market to undertake a comprehensive reconstruction of the facility using modern fire-resistant materials and safety systems, following persistent concerns about the market’s vulnerability to fire outbreaks.
Speaking in an interview on Channel One Newsroom on Saturday, April 19, Assistant Chief Fire Officer II Rashid Nisawu, Greater Accra Regional Commander, said recent reconstruction efforts have failed to adequately address fire safety risks due to the continued use of flammable wooden materials such as plywood and wawa boards.
“Until we commit to reconstructing these markets to meet modern safety standards—with smoke detectors, heat and flame sensors, and non-combustible building materials—we will continue to see recurring fire incidents,” Nisawu said.
He also advocated for stricter operational hours, recommending that markets open in the morning and close by early evening, to discourage traders from residing in the premises—an increasingly common practice that he says heightens the risk of overnight fires.
Despite prior calls for reform, market reconstructions have largely retained traditional materials and designs. Nisawu emphasized that meaningful change requires a decisive shift toward modern infrastructure and enforcement of safety protocols.
“The markets must reflect their commercial purpose—not serve as living quarters,” he said. “If we fail to adapt, we should expect the same devastating outcomes.”
Source:TheDotNews