A devastating fire swept through parts of the Dansoman market in Accra early today, causing significant damage and destroying numerous shops and stalls. The blaze resulted in the loss of goods valued at thousands of Ghana cedis, leaving many traders grappling with heavy losses and uncertainty about their futures. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and desperation as vendors tried in vain to salvage their merchandise from the raging inferno.
Among those affected, Adelaide Boatemaa, a longtime trader, spoke out about the chronic mismanagement of the market. She highlighted that for over 30 years, the market has seen little to no improvement because it operates under an unaccountable management entity outside the oversight of the local municipal assembly. She also revealed concerns about revenue collection, noting that taxes paid by traders lack proper documentation, such as receipts, which raises questions about transparency and accountability.
Hon George Ayeh Kpakpoe-Allotey, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Ablekuma West, confirmed that the market falls outside the direct jurisdiction of the municipal assembly—a legacy issue inherited by the current administration. While the assembly does not currently receive revenue from the market, it is actively engaging with stakeholders to understand the challenges better and explore ways to regulate the market more effectively. The MCE acknowledged the systemic issues that have contributed to the current crisis.
In response to the fire and longstanding management problems, the municipal assembly plans to convene a stakeholders’ meeting aimed at finding sustainable solutions and providing support to the victims. The event marks a critical opportunity for collaboration among traders, market managers, and government officials to restore order, improve management practices, and ensure that such tragic incidents do not recur. The call for government intervention reflects growing frustration among traders who seek official oversight to safeguard their businesses and livelihoods.
Source: Ohemaa Adusi-Poku