The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Oforikrom, Hon. Anwel Sadat Ahmed, has joined the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Hon. Mahama Ayariga, the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and the Mayor of Kumasi, Hon. Richard Ofori-Agyemang Boadi, to assess the damage caused by the recent fire outbreak at parts of the Kumasi Central Market.
The visit was also to sympathise with the affected traders, many of whom have suffered losses following the destruction of their goods and other properties in the devastating incident.
Hon. Anwel Sadat Ahmed’s presence underscored his commitment to supporting residents and traders within the Oforikrom Municipality, particularly those whose livelihoods have been affected by the disaster.
According to the MCE, many of the traders who conduct business at the Kumasi Central Market reside in the Oforikrom Municipality, making it important for him to join other government officials to express solidarity with them during this difficult period.
The visit provided an opportunity for the officials to assess the situation on the ground, appreciate the extent of the destruction and interact with the affected traders.
The fire outbreak has raised fresh concerns about the vulnerability of traders and their businesses to market fires, which often result in the destruction of merchandise, financial losses and disruptions to commercial activities.
For many traders, their businesses represent their primary source of income and the means through which they provide for their families. The destruction of their goods could, therefore, have serious consequences for their economic well-being.
The Oforikrom MCE’s decision to join the high-level delegation reflects the importance of cooperation among local and central government authorities in responding to emergencies and supporting communities affected by disasters.
GOVERNMENT SUPPORT.
Meanwhile, the government through the Kumasi mayor,Hon Richard Ofori Agyeman Boadi has indicated that the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) will undertake an assessment of the damage caused by the fire.
The assessment is expected to help establish the extent of the losses suffered by the affected traders and identify the support required to assist them.
The findings will be important in determining the needs of the victims and informing any subsequent interventions aimed at helping them recover from the incident.
The involvement of NADMO is also expected to provide a clearer picture of the impact of the fire on businesses and the livelihoods of those affected.
For traders who may have lost their entire stock, the outcome of the assessment could be particularly significant as they seek assistance to rebuild their businesses and resume normal commercial activities.
SOLIDARITY WITH AFFECTED TRADERS.
The visit by Hon. Anwel Sadat Ahmed and the other government officials sends a message of solidarity to the affected traders and their families, who are facing uncertainty in the aftermath of the disaster.
The Oforikrom MCE has expressed concern for all those affected, with his participation highlighting the need for local authorities to remain responsive to the concerns of residents, particularly during emergencies.
The incident has also brought renewed attention to the need for effective fire prevention measures, improved safety practices and stronger emergency preparedness within major commercial centres.
Markets accommodate large numbers of traders, customers and goods, making fire safety an important priority for authorities, market managers and business operators.
Stakeholders are consequently expected to continue working towards measures that can reduce the risk of future outbreaks and protect traders’ investments.
As the relevant authorities begin assessing the damage and determining the necessary interventions, attention will remain focused on the recovery of the affected traders.
The thoughts of the Oforikrom Municipal Assembly remain with the victims and their families as they navigate the difficult period, with hopes that the assessment process will help identify the assistance needed to support their recovery.
