Fire destroys Tamale Timber Market days after Kantamanto fire disaster

A devastating fire has torn through the Timber Market in Tamale, leaving traders in shock and despair.

The fire broke out late on Tuesday night, destroying much of the market and the livelihoods of many people who relied on the market for their daily income.

This tragic event follows a series of similar fires that have struck other major commercial areas in Ghana. Just last week, fires also ravaged the Kantamanto Market in Accra and the Kwadaso Wood Market in Kumasi. These repeated incidents are raising concerns about fire safety across the country, with many wondering why these fires are happening so frequently.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) responded quickly to the blaze in Tamale, but the fire had already spread across a large part of the market before it was eventually brought under control. Firefighters faced significant challenges during the operation, including difficulty accessing enough water and moving through the crowded market area.

At this point, it is unclear what caused the fire, and investigations are ongoing. However, many traders are left wondering how such disasters can be prevented in the future.

Worrying trend

This latest fire in Tamale has added to the growing list of commercial markets affected by fires in the past week. With livelihoods destroyed and businesses disrupted, many are now calling for better fire prevention measures and greater attention to safety standards in Ghana's markets.

Ghana’s outgoing president, Nana Akufo-Addo assured traders who lost their shops and livelihood in the devastating fire that engulfed the Kantamanto market in Central Accra on Thursday, January 2, 2024 of government support during his final State of the Nation Address.

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