The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has identified a potential electrical fault or arson as the cause of the catastrophic fire that swept through Accra’s Kantamanto Market in the early hours of Thursday, January 2, 2025.
The blaze, which broke out around 1:19 a.m., destroyed over 100 shops and left traders reeling from the loss of goods worth millions of cedis.
Preliminary investigations indicate that faulty electrical wiring, a frequent issue in the market, may have triggered the fire. However, the GNFS has not ruled out arson. “We suspect electrical faults, but there are indications this could have been a deliberate act. Investigations are ongoing,” said Alex King Nartey, the service’s Public Relations Officer.
Firefighters faced significant challenges accessing the area due to obstructions, delaying efforts to control the inferno.
Mr. Nartey highlighted the urgent need for improved fire safety measures in markets nationwide, citing outdated infrastructure and limited resources as major obstacles. “Modern equipment and better logistical support are critical for effective emergency response,” he stressed.
Distraught traders are appealing for government assistance to recover from the disaster.