The Executive Director of The Ark Foundation and Chairperson of the Civic Forum Initiative, Angela Dwamena-Aboagye, has raised concerns about the recurring fire outbreaks in parts of the country, particularly at the Kantamanto Market.

According to her, despite the numerous fire incidents over the years, the country has failed to learn from these occurrences and apply the necessary lessons to prevent future outbreaks.

• Read also: Fire destroys Kantamanto Market, displaces hundreds of traders

Speaking on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, January 4, Mrs Dwamena-Aboagye expressed her concern about the trend of increased fire incidents around the holiday season and the New Year.

She lamented that the repetitive nature of these incidents shows that lessons have not been effectively learned or integrated into managing markets and other public facilities.

Mrs. Dwamena-Aboagye also criticized the Ghana National Fire Service for their lack of transparency. She pointed out that while investigations are often initiated, the public rarely receives feedback on the causes of these fires.

She questioned whether the fire service lacks the investigative capacity to gather and provide data that could inform planning and policy decisions.

• Read also: Kantamanto Market fire: One dead, over 30,000 traders affected, 7,000 shops destroyed

“We need to look at that because people are suspecting arson. It maybe out of electric fire, whatever it is.

“But we do need to strengthen investigative capacities and feedback. Feedback that informs policy and planning otherwise I can bet you, next year January, another big fire is going to happen in some market,” she said.

She further emphasized the need for the government to prioritize the modernization of markets.

She added that all relevant agencies—state and local governments—should be coordinated to secure grants and long-term financing to address the issue comprehensively.