President John Dramani Mahama has highlighted the alarming practice among traders using inflammable materials in markets nationwide.
He criticized these practices, which he said were becoming a norm among traders, and called for urgent attention.
President Mahama made this observation on his Facebook wall following his visit to Adum Market in Kumasi on Friday, March 21, 2025, after a fire outbreak ravaged many shops and trading stalls.
In a post on Saturday, March 22, the president sympathized with the victims and cautioned against the use of inflammable materials in markets.
“A major concern is the use of gas cylinders and cooking in markets. These practices are extremely dangerous,” the post highlighted.
President Mahama suggested that stakeholders educate traders through various forums to help fight this menace.
“Our traders and shop owners must be educated and committed to fire safety to prevent future tragedies.”
Touching on the challenges firefighters face in accessing fire outbreaks, he indicated that the country must prioritize better planning in building markets.
“This tragedy underscores the urgent need for improved fire safety,” he added.
He hinted at his directive to the Chief of Staff to collaborate with the Ashanti Regional Minister and the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) to assess losses and provide immediate relief to affected traders.
