The Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson, has inaugurated a 10-member Anti-Market Fire Committee to assess fire risks in markets across the region, with a special focus on those in Sekondi-Takoradi.
The committee has been given ten days to evaluate the state of markets, identify fire threats, and propose practical recommendations to help prevent future outbreaks.
Chaired by the Western Regional Fire Officer, DCFO II D.A. Darko, the committee includes key stakeholders such as the Regional Security Liaison Officer, Brigadier General (Rtd.) Musah Whajah; Takoradi Market Queen, Veronica Arthur; Public Relations Officer for the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA), John Laste.
Others included Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) Chairman, Desmond Cudjoe; Regional NADMO Director, Abdul Ganiyu; Morning Show Host at Connect FM, Nhyiraba Paa Kwesi Simpson; and the Regional Engineer for the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), with a representative from the Effia Kwesimintsim Municipal Assembly.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Western Regional Minister, Joseph Nelson urged the committee to approach the task with diligence and dedication.
He expressed confidence in their ability to make meaningful contributions, emphasizing that they were selected because of their commitment to the development of the Western Region.
“As Regional Minister, I’ve taken lessons from the recent devastating fires in Greater Accra and Ashanti regions. To prevent such incidents in our region, I’ve assembled a team to raise awareness and focus on fire safety in our markets, big or small. We’re committed to protecting our markets, where many of our mothers and sisters work hard to earn a living.
“Fire outbreaks come with huge costs, not just financial, but also emotional, causing discomfort and affecting livelihoods. We’re determined to prevent such incidents in our region and ensure the safety and well-being of our people,” the minister said.
On his part, Chairman of the Anti-Market Fire Committee, Assistant Chief Fire Officer DCFO II David Asa Darko, elaborated on the challenges firefighters face when combating market fires.
He stated that beyond their routine day and night patrols at the markets, they will also establish market squads, provide fire safety training, and equip them with fire extinguishers to help combat fire outbreaks when necessary.
The committee’s findings and recommendations are expected to guide the regional administration in implementing measures to safeguard markets from fire incidents.
