Accra, Jan 7, GNA-Former Presidential Candidate Alan Kyerematen, his running mate Lawyer Kwame Owusu Danso, and senior members of the Movement for Change have visited the site of the recent Kantamanto market fire in Accra to sympathize with traders affected by the disaster.
The fire reduced countless shops to ashes, destroyed goods worth millions of cedis, and left traders in despair.
Touring the charred remains of the bustling market, Mr. Kyerematen engaged victims to understand their challenges and offered heartfelt condolences.
He acknowledged the economic and emotional toll the tragedy had inflicted and urged traders to remain strong during the difficult times.
Mr. Kyerematen called on the government to prioritize urgent relief measures to help traders recover and rebuild their businesses.
“I urge the government to act urgently and provide relief to our hardworking traders who depend on Kantamanto for their livelihoods,” he emphasized.
He highlighted the need for financial support and logistical assistance, stressing the traders’ role as vital contributors to Ghana’s informal economy.
He also underscored the tragedy’s ripple effect on the economy and families nationwide and urged better regulation of market spaces, investment in fire-resistant infrastructure, and equipping the Ghana National Fire Service with vehicles and equipment to handle such emergencies effectively.
Reflecting on his tenure as Ghana’s Trade and Industry Minister, Mr. Kyerematen reiterated his unwavering commitment to supporting traders.
He referenced key policies under his Great Transformational Plan (GTP) to establish a Traders Bank and modernize markets nationwide, revealing that he had shared his plan with the new president to guide long-term solutions.
During the visit, traders expressed frustration over delayed support from authorities and the uncertainty surrounding their recovery.
Responding, Mr. Kyerematen assured them he would amplify their concerns and push for meaningful government action.
As a gesture of solidarity, he donated GHS 100,000 to ease their immediate challenges, a move deeply appreciated by the traders.
However, he acknowledged the limitations of individual contributions, emphasizing that comprehensive government intervention and sustainable strategies were essential for recovery.
Mr. Kyerematen also appealed to corporate organizations, philanthropists, and the public to assist the affected traders. “This is a time for collective action. Let us come together to help those who are suffering regain their dignity and livelihoods,” he urged.
Mr. Kyerematen reaffirmed his belief in the critical role of markets in economic transformation and called on the government to focus on building resilient, fire-safe markets that protect traders from such disasters.
“Our traders deserve better facilities to secure their future and their families,” he stated.
GNA