Former presidential candidate, Alan Kyerematen alongside his running mate, Lawyer Kwame Owusu Danso, and senior members of the Movement for Change, have visited the site of the recent Kantamanto Market fire in Accra to express their sympathy to the traders affected by the disaster.

The fire devastated numerous shops, destroyed goods worth millions of cedis, and left traders in despair.

As they toured the charred remains of the once thriving market, Mr Kyerematen engaged with the victims to understand their challenges and offered heartfelt condolences.

He recognised the immense economic and emotional toll the tragedy had taken and urged the traders to remain resilient during these difficult times.

Mr Kyerematen called on the government to prioritise urgent relief measures to support the traders in their recovery and rebuilding efforts.

“I urge the government to act swiftly and provide relief to our hardworking traders, who rely on Kantamanto for their livelihoods,” he emphasised.

He stressed the need for financial support and logistical assistance, highlighting the traders' vital contribution to Ghana’s informal economy.

He also pointed out the wider economic impact of the tragedy and its effect on families across the country.

Advocating for preventive measures, Mr Kyerematen called for better regulation of market spaces, investment in fire-resistant infrastructure, and the provision of necessary vehicles and equipment to the Ghana National Fire Service to ensure it can handle such emergencies effectively.

Reflecting on his tenure as Ghana’s Trade and Industry Minister, Mr Kyerematen reiterated his unwavering commitment to supporting traders.

He referenced key policies from his Great Transformational Plan (GTP), which included the establishment of a Traders' Bank and the modernisation of markets across the country, revealing that he had shared this plan with the new president as a guide for long-term solutions.

During the visit, traders voiced their frustration over delayed support from the authorities and the uncertainty surrounding their recovery. In response, Mr Kyerematen assured them that he would amplify their concerns and advocate for meaningful government action.

As a gesture of solidarity, he donated GHȼ100,000 to help ease their immediate challenges, a move that was deeply appreciated by the traders.

However, he acknowledged the limitations of individual contributions, emphasising that comprehensive government intervention and sustainable strategies were essential for their recovery.

Mr Kyerematen also appealed to corporate organisations, philanthropists, and the public to assist the affected traders. “This is a time for collective action. Let us come together to help those who are suffering regain their dignity and livelihoods,” he urged.

Mr Kyerematen reaffirmed his belief in the critical role of markets in economic transformation. He called on the government to focus on building resilient, fire-safe markets that will protect traders from such disasters in the future.

“Our traders deserve better facilities to secure their futures and those of their families,” he stated.