Victims of the recent fire at the Anwona Market in Kumasi say they will resist any attempt by the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) to redevelop the site, warning that such plans could displace original traders.

The traders argue that rebuilding through private contractors would make rental and user charges unaffordable for existing tenants. Some even suspect the blaze was deliberate to justify redevelopment.

The fire, which struck on Monday, January 26, 2026, near Afful Nkwanta, destroyed more than 400 shops and caused losses running into millions of cedis. It came less than 24 hours after another outbreak at Sofoline, which gutted 26 vehicles. In just one week, Kumasi has recorded three major fire incidents, raising concerns among residents and authorities.

Although investigations are ongoing, some victims insist the Anwona Market fire was an act of arson. Speaking on Akoma FM’s Ghanakoma morning show, affected traders vowed to oppose any redevelopment plan that sidelines them.

Among those hit hard is Daakyehene, a shoemaker who lost three fully equipped shops, including machines and large quantities of leather. He and other traders are appealing to the government for financial and logistical support to restart their businesses.

Leaders of the affected traders say they will not accept any redevelopment plan that excludes original tenants or imposes unaffordable costs. Authorities have assured that investigations into the cause of the fire are underway.