In a tragic turn of events, a massive fire has ravaged Ghana’s Kantamanto Market, one of Africa’s largest second-hand clothing markets.
The blaze, which erupted early Thursday (January 2, 2025) morning, has left over 100 shops destroyed and caused significant economic losses for thousands of traders
who rely on the market for their livelihoods2.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) deployed 13 fire tenders to combat the flames, eventually bringing the fire under control.
Preliminary investigations suggest that faulty electrical connections might have sparked the blaze, although arson has not been ruled out.
The fire has reduced much of the market to ashes, displacing thousands of traders and destroying goods worth millions of the local cedi currency3.
Traders are now calling on the government for support to rebuild their businesses.
“My shops burned, I feel empty,” said Isaac Ofori, a trader who lost both his shops in the fire.
“I have no idea where I can find the money to launch another business, so the government has to help and support us. Everything’s been spoiled”.
The Kantamanto Market is a vital hub of Ghana’s informal economy, with around 10,000 people depending on it for their livelihoods.
The fire has dealt a severe blow to the community, and the road to recovery will be long and challenging.
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