In the aftermath of the recent fire that ravaged sections of the Adum Market in Kumasi, Member of Parliament for Abetifi in the Eastern region and former Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Bryan Acheampong, has stepped forward with a substantial cash donation of GH¢300,000 to support affected traders.
He has also make GHC500,000 in a similar gesture ton the Kantamanto market fire victims.
The gesture, announced during a visit to site, is part of broader relief efforts aimed at helping victims recover from the sudden loss of their businesses and livelihoods.
The fire, which tore through the bustling commercial center, destroyed several shops and goods worth millions of cedis, leaving many traders in despair.
For residents and victims, the Adum Market has long been a commercial lifeline. Its destruction has not only disrupted economic activities but also rekindled concerns over the frequency and scale of market fires in Ghana.
During his visit, Dr. Acheampong expressed deep sorrow over the extent of the destruction, describing the scenes as heartbreaking.
Addressing the affected traders, he reiterated his commitment to supporting market communities, adding that the GH¢300,000 donation was only a first step.
“What we are witnessing here is not just a loss of goods, but a collapse of dreams and livelihoods. If given the mandate, I will see to the total reconstruction of the Adum Market into a modern, secure, and resilient space,” he assured.
Just weeks prior, another major fire struck the Kantamanto Market in Accra, displacing hundreds of traders and destroying goods worth millions.
In response to that disaster, Dr. Acheampong also pledged a GH¢500,000 donation, signaling a growing pattern of philanthropic intervention from the MP in times of crisis.
Beyond financial assistance, Dr. Acheampong called for national dialogue on market safety.
He emphasized the need for a more sustainable and coordinated approach to reconstructing markets with fire prevention infrastructure in mind.
“We cannot continue to rebuild the same way and expect different results,” he said. “It is time we take a hard look at how our markets are constructed and put safety at the forefront.”
Dr. Acheampong’s dual gesture of relief for both Adum and Kantamanto victims comes at a time when fire outbreaks in major markets have become alarmingly frequent, raising questions about urban planning, enforcement of fire codes, and government responsiveness.
–BY Daniel Bampoe
