A devastating fire has swept through Anwona Market, near Afful Nkwanta in the Kumasi Metropolis, destroying about 400 shops and causing losses estimated to run into millions of cedis.
The fire broke out on Monday night at about 10:00 p.m., barely 24 hours after a similar inferno at Sofoline, which destroyed 26 vehicle mechanic shops and 39 vehicles. In less than a week, three major fire incidents have been recorded in the Ashanti Regional capital, heightening public concern.
Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded promptly to the Anwona Market incident but encountered serious challenges accessing the scene. Roads leading to the market were blocked, delaying firefighting efforts and allowing the blaze to spread rapidly through sections of the market.
Eyewitnesses told reporters that the fire is believed to have started from the footwear production section of the market, an area where highly flammable materials are commonly stored.
Some affected traders have alleged arson, claiming the fire may have been deliberately set to pave the way for the redevelopment of the market. They argue that previous attempts by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) to redevelop Anwona Market were strongly resisted by traders.
The traders have warned that they will oppose any redevelopment plans imposed by the KMA without their consent.
As of Tuesday morning, victims were still at the scene assessing their losses, with many traders left devastated after losing their entire livelihoods.
The Ghana National Fire Service has commenced investigations to determine the cause of the fire, while authorities are expected to engage market stakeholders amid rising tensions and growing public concern over the spate of fires in the metropolis.
By Isaac Bediako
