The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council has expressed deep concern over the sharp rise in fire outbreaks across the region, with a total of 125 fire incidents recorded between January 1 and January 28, 2026, according to reports from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
In an official statement issued by the Ashanti Regional Minister, Hon. Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the alarming trend has been described as a major threat to lives, livelihoods, property, and the overall economic stability of communities in the region, particularly during the peak of the dry season.
Rising Fire Incidents Spark Worry
The Regional Minister noted that the increasing frequency of fires, especially within such a short period, calls for urgent collective action from residents, traders, institutions, and stakeholders.
“These incidents include market fires, residential fires, commercial and industrial fires, vehicular fires, bush fires, and other outdoor fire emergencies,” the statement revealed.
The dry season, characterised by high temperatures and windy conditions, has been identified as a major contributing factor to the rapid spread of fires, turning minor outbreaks into devastating disasters.
Markets Remain Most Vulnerable
Of particular concern, the Minister highlighted the recurrence of fires in major markets across the Ashanti Region. Markets serve as the heartbeat of the local economy and the primary source of livelihood for thousands of families.
“Market fires often result in the complete destruction of goods, savings, and years of hard work, leaving many victims economically vulnerable,” Dr. Amoakohene stated.
Traders, many of whom invest their life savings into their businesses, are often left stranded after such incidents, worsening poverty levels and affecting economic productivity.
The statement also raised alarm over the surge in bush fires during the dry season. Uncontrolled burning, unsafe farming practices, and careless disposal of burning materials have been cited as major risks to farmlands, forest reserves, residential communities, and public infrastructure.
Bush fires, the Minister warned, spread rapidly under dry and windy conditions and could escalate into major disasters if not addressed promptly.
While acknowledging the professionalism and swift response of the Ghana National Fire Service, the Regional Minister admitted that the losses being recorded remain significant.
“The GNFS has responded promptly and tirelessly to protect lives, property, and the environment. However, the impact on families, traders, businesses, and the local economy continues to be severe,” the statement said.
Preliminary Causes Linked to Electrical Faults and Unsafe Practices
Preliminary investigations by the Ghana National Fire Service indicate that many of the recorded incidents are linked to preventable causes, including:
Electrical faults and illegal connections
Poor wiring.
Improper storage and handling of flammable materials.
Use of open flames for cooking or lighting in unsafe environments
These factors, authorities believe, significantly increase the risk of outbreaks, particularly in congested areas such as markets and densely populated communities.
Dr. Amoakohene urged the public to adopt strict fire safety measures, especially during the dry season. He called on households, traders, and business operators to ensure that electrical systems are inspected regularly and that fire safety protocols are adhered to.
Residents were also advised to avoid indiscriminate burning and report fire risks promptly to the relevant authorities.
A Collective Responsibility
The Ashanti Regional Minister concluded by stressing that preventing fire outbreaks must be seen as a shared responsibility.
“This is not only the duty of the Fire Service alone. Every resident must play an active role in safeguarding lives and property,” he emphasized.
As the region battles the growing menace of fire outbreaks, authorities are expected to intensify public education, enforcement of safety regulations, and community engagement to curb the trend and protect the economic and social wellbeing of the Ashanti Region.
