Fire Outbreak Destroys Wholesale Shop at Kejetia Market in Kumasi

Fire outbreak on Monday morning at Kejetia Market has destroyed a wholesale shop dealing in matches, raising fresh concerns over recurring fire incidents at the busy commercial centre.

The incident occurred at approximately 8:36 a.m., at a time many traders were opening their shops and preparing for the day’s business.

The fire spread quickly within the affected shop, destroying nearly half of the goods before personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service stationed near the market intervened.

Officers from the nearby fire station responded swiftly to the distress call and arrived at the scene within minutes. Their timely intervention helped bring the fire under control and prevented it from spreading to adjoining shops in the densely populated trading area.

The shop owner, Alice Adu-Gyamfi, recounted the incident in an emotional interview, saying she had opened the shop as usual and was preparing for business when she noticed smoke coming from inside.

According to her, before she could react, the fire had already begun destroying her goods.

She lamented the extent of the damage, noting that a significant portion of her stock had been lost in the blaze.

Visibly distressed, Madam Adu-Gyamfi appealed to the government, benevolent individuals, and relevant institutions to support her, describing the shop as her only source of livelihood.

Kejetia Fire Commander, Ebenezer Opoku, confirmed the incident and commended his team for their rapid response.

He stated that the fire was brought under control within five minutes, preventing what could have escalated into a major disaster.

He further disclosed that investigations had commenced to determine the exact cause of the fire and assured the public that updates would be provided after findings are concluded.

Monday’s incident adds to a growing list of fire outbreaks recorded at Kejetia Market over the years.

Traders and authorities have repeatedly expressed concern over safety conditions within the market, particularly congestion, overcrowding of goods, possible electrical faults, and limited access routes for emergency responders.

Some traders who witnessed the latest incident expressed fear over the recurring nature of such outbreaks and called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations, improved emergency access routes, and intensified public education on fire prevention.

Despite the losses recorded, many traders were grateful that the fire was contained quickly, averting what could have turned into a much larger disaster at one of Kumasi’s busiest trading hubs.

Authorities are expected to intensify safety inspections and sensitisation efforts to reduce the risk of future occurrences.