The Africa Institute on Governance and Security (AIGS) expresses profound concern over the devastating fire outbreaks that have recently ravaged Adum, the commercial heartbeat of Kumasi, on March 21, 2025, and Kantamanto, a vital market hub in Accra. These tragic incidents have resulted in the loss of livelihoods, destruction of property worth millions of Ghana Cedis, and untold hardship for traders and citizens alike. The recurring nature of such disasters underscores a critical governance and security gap that demands urgent attention and decisive action.
We admonish the Mahama government to prioritize the implementation of rapid intervention vehicles pioneered by Akufo-Addo government, a PPP with EnP Services, Ghana across Ghana’s urban centers and markets. The deployment of such specialized firefighting units—equipped with modern technology and capable of swift response—could significantly reduce response times, mitigate damage, and save lives and property. The absence of adequate rapid intervention mechanisms has left our communities vulnerable, and we urge the government to act with the urgency these crises warrant.
To prevent future occurrences, we propose the following five evidence-based strategies:
- Enhanced Electrical Safety Standards: Enforce strict regulations on electrical wiring and appliances in markets and commercial areas, addressing the frequent culprit of faulty wiring identified in preliminary reports.
- Urban Planning Reforms: Redesign market layouts to include wider access roads and emergency exits, ensuring fire trucks and personnel can reach affected areas without delay.
- Mandatory Fire Safety Equipment: Require all commercial buildings and markets to install functional fire extinguishers, alarms, and hydrants, with regular inspections to ensure compliance. 4. Public Awareness Campaigns: Intensify education on fire prevention, focusing on safe cooking practices, proper handling of flammable materials, and the dangers of overloading electrical circuits.
- Insurance Adoption: Collaborate with trader associations and private insurers to promote affordable commercial insurance schemes, providing a financial safety net for those affected by such disasters.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in intervening during these emergencies. Despite challenges such as inadequate water supply and outdated equipment, the GNFS has consistently demonstrated bravery and dedication in the face of overwhelming odds. Their interventions in Adum and Kantamanto, though stretched thin, highlight their critical role in safeguarding our communities. We call on the government to bolster their capacity with modern firefighting tools, including rapid intervention vehicles, to enhance their effectiveness.
The fires at Adum and Kantamanto are not mere accidents; they are symptoms of systemic neglect that the Mahama administration must address. The Africa Institute on Governance and Security stands ready to support policy dialogue and implementation efforts to ensure a safer, more resilient Ghana. Let these tragedies serve as a clarion call for transformative action—our people deserve no less.
Signed,
Dr. Palgrave Boakye-Danquah
Governance Specialist and Security Strategist
