Kwadaso Wood Market fire: Authorities probe cause after second blaze in 14 days

Authorities are investigating a devastating fire at Kwadaso Wood Village in the Ashanti Region, which destroyed over 250 shops on January 19, 2025. This fire follows another incident just two weeks prior, leaving traders in despair. Traders, including a furniture producer who lost a sawmill and livestock, called for aid as they struggled to salvage goods.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) contained the flames with advanced equipment, but the damage was extensive. D.O. 2 Peter Addai, GNFS Ashanti Regional PRO, highlighted concern over the rising number of market fires.

He outlined strategies to curb these incidents, including market patrols, risk assessments, and stationed fire tenders.

Ghana recorded 4,650 fire incidents between January and September 2024, with fires at major markets like Kantamanto in Accra causing significant property losses and psychological impacts. The GNFS has intensified measures to address this alarming trend.