The Ashanti Caucus in Parliament has called for an urgent investigation into the recurring fire outbreaks in the Ashanti Region, describing them as a growing threat to businesses and livelihoods.
In a statement issued on March 21 and signed by Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Caucus expressed deep sorrow over the latest devastating fire, which destroyed a building adjacent to the Old Central Market in Kumasi. They extended their sympathies to affected traders and business owners.
“We call on the Minister for the Interior to take immediate steps to investigate these recurring fires in the region and implement comprehensive measures to prevent further occurrences,” the statement read.
The caucus noted that the Ashanti Region has witnessed an alarming increase in market fires in recent months, leading to massive financial losses.
“In February, a devastating fire swept through Suame Magazine, destroying about 25 spare parts shops and 34 vehicles. The Kwadaso Wood Market has been hit twice by fire outbreaks within a month, and in March, a raging fire at the Konongo Mining Stores wiped out numerous businesses,” the statement detailed.
The most recent incident, the fire outbreak in Adum on March 21, has intensified concerns over the lack of fire prevention measures and emergency response capabilities in the region.
The Caucus also raised concerns about the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), stating that inadequate firefighting equipment, unreliable water supply, and personnel shortages have made it difficult to combat large-scale fires effectively.
“We demand urgent action to protect lives, livelihoods, and investments in the region,” the caucus emphasized, urging the government to prioritize equipping the GNFS with modern resources.
They called on authorities to take swift action to investigate the cause of these fires and implement strategies to prevent further devastation.
