The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has officially launched the National Inter-Market Fire Safety Competition at the Malata Market in Accra-Newtown, an initiative aimed at promoting fire safety awareness and reducing the recurring incidence of market fires across the country.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Gideon Asamoah Tetteh, representing the Honourable Minister for the Interior, commended the GNFS for the initiative and urged market leaders and traders to embrace the programme wholeheartedly. He emphasized that collective commitment is crucial in eliminating market fires.
Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sapong described the launch as a major step toward protecting markets, livelihoods, and families.
She noted that the competition focuses on learning, discipline, and responsibility, encouraging traders to act as fire safety ambassadors by practicing safe electricity use, proper handling of gas and fuel, maintaining good housekeeping, and responding promptly to fire incidents.
She stressed that while prizes will be awarded, the greatest reward remains safety, highlighting that “a safe market means safe traders, protected goods, and secured livelihoods.”
The programme was formally launched by the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Ayawaso Central, Hon. Rudolph Collingwood-Williams, who pledged to construct a fire post at the Mallam Atta Market. This commitment signals strong municipal support and a firm step toward improving fire preparedness in local markets.
Mr. Charles Ansong Dankyi, Head of Special Projects at the GNFS, highlighted the importance of insurance in helping traders recover from fire incidents, while Assembly Member for the Mallam Atta Electoral Area, Hon. Abubakar Moro, also pledged his support for the initiative.
The presence of Directors of the Service and Greater Accra Regional Fire Commander ACFO II Kwame Nisawu Rashid underscored the strong institutional backing for the competition.
Market leaders and traders welcomed the initiative, committing themselves to implementing all recommended fire safety measures to ensure safer trading environments.
The Service’s Regimental Band enlivened the occasion with lively music, entertaining attendees with spirited music throughout the launch.
The event marked the beginning of what the Chief Fire Officer described as the “planting of a seed of fire safety” in every market in Ghana, with the hope of nurturing a lasting culture of prevention, preparedness, and community responsibility.
