President John Mahama has directed the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to provide immediate support to traders whose businesses were adversely affected by the widespread fire that engulfed the Adum Blue light area in Kumasi on Friday.

The fire, which broke out in the heart of Adum, one of Kumasi's busiest commercial districts, destroyed several shops and properties, causing significant losses to the affected traders.

Emergency responders battled the blaze for several hours, but the damage was substantial, with many local businesses left in ruins.

In response to the disaster, President Mahama expressed his sympathy and concern for the affected traders and their families and directed NADMO to quickly assess the situation and offer the necessary support.

“I came to the Ashanti Region this morning for the 'Tree for Life' initiative, and the regional minister informed me of what happened.

“This is sad and unfortunate because if you see the shops that have been engulfed, it's devastating.

“We have to learn from this to plan our market well. We have spoken to NADMO to help the traders in the meantime,” the President said.

Meanwhile, President Mahama has condemned the use of gas cylinders at marketplaces, indicating that they contribute to the fire outbreaks being experienced.

“We have to carefully look at our market structures. The sounds we hear are all gas cylinders. We shouldn't be cooking at the market,” he added.

The affected traders are, however, anticipating immediate action from the authorities.