Government has installed 1,370 fire extinguishers and set up a temporary fire station at the Kantamanto Market as part of efforts to strengthen fire safety following last year’s devastating blaze.

The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, disclosed this while appearing before Parliament’s Government Assurance Committee on Thursday.

According to the minister, the interventions were carried out through a collaboration between the government and the Greater Accra Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service to reduce the risk of future fire outbreaks and improve emergency response at the market.

He revealed that 682 traders have been trained in the proper use of fire extinguishers, while more than 12,000 market users have received education on fire prevention and safety practices.

Ahmed Ibrahim also announced that a temporary fire station has been established within the market to enable a swift response to emergencies. In addition, daily security patrols are being conducted by market security personnel engaged by the OR Foundation.

The minister said the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) plans to install smoke detectors and fireballs at strategic locations across the market to further enhance fire safety.

However, he noted that the installation of the smoke detectors has been delayed due to operational challenges involving the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG).

Despite the setback, Ahmed Ibrahim assured Parliament that government remains committed to completing all outstanding fire safety measures at Kantamanto Market and replicating similar interventions in other major markets across the country.

He added that the Ministry will continue to work closely with the AMA, the Ghana National Fire Service and other stakeholders to strengthen fire prevention systems and improve the safety of traders.