Slum expansion fuelling urban fire risk – GNFS warns

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) is worried about slum settlements. These overcrowded areas are becoming fire hotspots.

This concern follows a fire on May 5 at the Sakumono-Asoprochona Railway enclave. The fire destroyed many homes and displaced numerous residents.

Desmond Essoun Ackah, Head of Public Relations at GNFS, spoke to Citi News on May 11, 2025. He noted that such fires are happening more often due to negligence and illegal power connections.

Ackah urged local authorities to act quickly. He wants them to address the growth of slum communities and enforce safety measures.

He said, “Those people are low-income earners.” The GNFS has visited these communities to raise awareness about fire prevention.

However, he acknowledged that negligence can occur. Illegal wiring is common in these areas, which increases fire risks.

Ackah believes that if local assemblies take action, it could prevent fires. Finding decent housing for residents would also help reduce risks.