The Member of Parliament for Odododiodio, Alfred Nii Kotey Ashie, has expressed gratitude to government for extending support to traders and market associations affected by recurring fire outbreaks at the Timber Market, Makola, and Kantamanto markets in Accra.
His remarks follow a parliamentary question he posed to the Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, on what measures government had taken to assist the victims.
Responding to the question on the floor of Parliament on Thursday October 30, 2025, the Minister said the welfare of traders remains a top priority for government because of their vital role in commerce, employment creation, and revenue generation.
He disclosed that President Mahama had donated ₵1 million to support the reconstruction and redevelopment of the Kantamanto Market, which was badly affected by fire, while the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) complemented the President’s effort with additional financial support.
According to Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim, the AMA has been engaging the affected traders to explore various forms of assistance and to ensure their swift return to business.
On the Timber Market, the Minister, who is also the Member of Parliament for Banda, said the AMA continues to liaise with traders to identify support mechanisms that will enhance their operations, even as the Assembly undertakes lane demarcation and access improvement exercises to facilitate emergency response and firefighting operations.
Mr. Ahmed Ibrahim reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and property, and to ensuring that Ghana’s markets become safer, more resilient, and vibrant centres of economic activity.
He assured Parliament that government would continue to collaborate with local authorities, market leaders, and traders to reduce fire risks and strengthen disaster prevention measures in the country’s major commercial centres.
