By Elsie Appiah-Osei
Accra, Jan. 03, 2025, GNA – President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo on Friday expressed his deep sympathy to the Thousands of traders who lost their goods in the devastating fire at Kantamanto in the Greater Accra region.
The fire, which broke out in the early hours of January 2, 2025, destroyed numerous stalls and shops, leaving many traders in distress.
During his final State of the Nation Address (SONA) in Parliament House, President Akufo-Addo recognised the severe impact of the fire on the livelihoods of the affected traders.
SONA is a constitutional obligation and yearly tradition, wherein the Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces reports on the status of the country, unveils the government’s agenda for the coming year, and proposes to Parliament certain legislative measures.
Article 67 of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, states that the President shall deliver a message on the SONA to Parliament at the start of each session and before the dissolution of Parliament.
It also imposes an obligation on Members of Parliament, the Speaker of Parliament, and the Judiciary to receive the President’s SONA.
President Akufo-Addo assured the victims of the government’s support in providing the necessary help toward the rebuild of their businesses and recover from the tragedy.
He said: “I am deeply saddened by the devastating fire at Kantamanto market. My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected, and I extend heartfelt sympathies to the hardworking traders who have lost their goods and investments.”
The President also called on Ghanaians to come together in solidarity and support the affected traders during this difficult time.
Meanwhile, the government has pledged to investigate the cause of the incident and implement measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The market, known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse range of goods, was reduced to ashes in a matter of hours.
The scene was one of heartbreak and chaos. Traders, many of whom had invested their life savings into their businesses, sifted through the charred remains of their stalls, hoping to salvage anything of value.
GNA