Asantehene makes pledge to Adum Market fire victims

**Asantehene Pledges Support for Adum Market Fire Victims**

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has pledged support for fire victims. This follows a devastating fire at the Adum market in Kumasi on March 21, 2025. The fire destroyed shops and goods worth millions of cedis.

Chiefs from the Traditional Council will assess the damage. They were directed to visit the site and evaluate the destruction. The Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, informed Manhyia Palace about the incident.

Acheafourhene Boakye Asafo Adjei Bonsu spoke on behalf of the Asantehene. He expressed deep concern for traders who lost their livelihoods. The assessment will help determine how to assist victims and rebuild market facilities.

Key chiefs have already visited the disaster site. They plan to meet with the Regional Coordinating Council soon. Their goal is to finalize plans for new market structures.

Amoakohene urged victims to remain calm during this time. He assured them that the government is committed to addressing their concerns quickly. Reports indicate that rebuilding plans are underway.

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamoud Bawumia has also shown support. He donated GH¢200,000 and 1,000 bags of cement to aid recovery efforts. Kennedy Agyepong contributed GH¢1,000 and building materials as well.

Katakyie Afrifa donated GH¢100,000 and promised more materials later. These donors aim to ensure a speedy completion of rebuilding projects.

Bawumia called on the government to prioritize completing phase two of market structures. This phase is reportedly 80% complete and would provide more business space.

To maintain order at the fire zone, personnel from NADMO are monitoring the area. The Ashanti Regional Chief Fire Officer pledged increased fire safety education in Kumasi markets.

This initiative aims to prevent future fires and protect traders' properties. The recent fire serves as a wake-up call for better safety measures.

In response to the tragedy, calls for reform within Kumasi City Market have emerged. The Kumasi Central Market Traders Union demands an overhaul of management practices.

Chairman Johnson Kwabena Ankrah criticized Electricity Company of Ghana's lack of engagement with market management over debts. An interim committee has been formed while investigations continue into management issues at the market.