The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has raised concerns about the consistent failure of many local assemblies to implement its fire prevention recommendations.
Despite providing detailed guidelines to mitigate fire risks in communities, the GNFS says most assemblies have not taken concrete steps to enforce these measures.
This issue came into sharp focus following a devastating fire at the Kantamanto Market in Accra on January 2, 2025. The blaze, which occurred in the early hours, reduced the bustling market to ashes, leaving traders devastated and counting their losses.
Speaking on Eyewitness News, ADO1 Alex King Nartey revealed that the GNFS has repeatedly advised assemblies on measures to prevent annual fires, especially in high-risk areas like Kantamanto. However, he noted with concern that these recommendations are often ignored, contributing to recurring tragedies.
The GNFS is calling on assemblies to take fire safety more seriously to protect lives and property.
“Anytime we do our investigations, we top it up with recommendations and if these recommendations are followed religiously, will help reduce the instances of fire outbreaks. Unfortunately, when we make such recommendations, it becomes a problem when dealing with some of the assembles.
“You will agree with me that looking at a market like Kaneshie, you don’t remember the last time there was a fire incident there. Because as of the last time it got burnt, recommendations were made by the GNFS and they were implemented and we have not heard of any free outbreak in the area. A place like Kantamanto would have been best served if we had a fire post.
“They should create a space for that so that the officers who will be stationed at the post will carry out inspections in these areas and if they anticipate risks, they will make sure that any fire that comes is tackled so that it doesn’t spread,” he stated.
