The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating fire outbreak that swept through the Amakom Market, popularly known as Anlo Dwom, leaving traders counting heavy losses and livelihoods reduced to ashes.
The inferno, which occurred on Monday, January 26, 2026, destroyed goods worth thousands of cedis, affecting scores of traders—many of whom depend solely on the market for their daily survival and family sustenance.
Years of hard work, investment, and sacrifice were wiped out within hours, plunging affected traders and their families into distress.
In an official statement issued on January 27, 2026, and signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Assembly, Henrietta A.K. Aboagye, the KMA conveyed heartfelt sympathy to all victims of the fire disaster on behalf of the Metropolitan Chief Executive and the entire Assembly.
“This tragedy goes beyond the destruction of property; it represents a painful setback to hardworking men and women who depend on the market to care for their families and contribute meaningfully to the local economy of Kumasi,” the statement noted.
The Assembly acknowledged the emotional and economic toll the incident has had on traders, stressing that markets such as Amakom serve as critical engines of commerce and livelihoods within the metropolis.
The KMA lauded the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) for its swift response and professionalism in bringing the fire under control, a move which helped prevent the blaze from spreading further and causing even greater destruction.
The Assembly also commended individuals and institutions who supported the emergency response efforts, emphasizing that their collective intervention played a crucial role in minimizing the extent of the damage.
According to the statement, the KMA is actively engaging relevant agencies to assess the full extent of the damage and explore appropriate intervention measures to support affected traders.
The Assembly assured the public that concrete steps are being considered and that affected persons will be kept informed as engagements and assessments progress.
“Further updates will be communicated as engagements progress,” the statement assured.
The KMA appealed to affected traders to remain calm, united, and cooperative as authorities work together to identify sustainable solutions to alleviate their plight.
The Assembly also reiterated its commitment to strengthening safety measures in markets across the metropolis, with the aim of preventing future fire outbreaks and safeguarding lives and property.
A Message of Hope and Solidarity
In concluding the statement, the KMA encouraged all affected persons to draw strength from collective solidarity, reassuring them that they are not alone in this difficult moment.
“The Assembly stands with you, and together, we will work towards recovery, resilience, and hope,” the statement emphasized.
The Amakom Market fire adds to a growing list of market fire incidents in Ghana, reigniting public discourse on market safety, fire prevention infrastructure, and emergency preparedness.
As traders begin the painful process of rebuilding, many are hopeful that promised interventions will translate into tangible relief and long-term solutions.
