On March 27, 2025, Western Regional Minister Joseph Nelson launched an 11-member Anti-Market Fire Committee to tackle the recurring issue of market fires in the Western Region. Chaired by Assistant Chief Fire Officer Grade Two (ACFOII) David Asa Darko, the committee includes key stakeholders such as security officials, market leaders, journalists, and utility representatives.
Their mission is to assess fire risks in markets, particularly in Sekondi Takoradi, and deliver actionable recommendations within ten days to prevent future outbreaks.
The initiative follows devastating fires in Greater Accra and Ashanti regions, prompting Nelson to prioritize fire safety in Western Region markets, vital economic hubs for many families.
“We’re committed to protecting our markets, where many of our mothers and sisters earn a living,” Nelson said at the inauguration, urging the committee to work with diligence. He emphasized the high financial and emotional toll of fire outbreaks and the need for proactive prevention.
Committee Chairman ACFOII David Asa Darko highlighted key challenges, including illegal electrical connections, cooking in markets, and obstructed walkways that hinder firefighting efforts.
He recommended banning market cooking, regular electrical inspections by the Electricity Company of Ghana, and creating clear access paths for emergency response. The committee plans to engage directly with market women to raise awareness and promote fire safety practices.
Comprising figures like Brigadier General (Rtd.) Musah Whajah, Takoradi Market Queen Veronica Arthur, and GJA Chairman Desmond Cudjoe, the committee’s diverse expertise aims to ensure comprehensive solutions. Their forthcoming recommendations are expected to shape regional strategies, safeguarding traders, customers, and communities from the threat of market fires.
