By Albert Allotey
Accra, March 25, GNA – The Or Foundation, a non-profit organisation based in Accra, has donated GHS 1 million to support the reconstruction of Kantamanto Market following the devastating fire that razed Accra’s largest second-hand clothing hub.
The contribution represents the largest single donation to date and underscores the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that the market members rebuild and restore Kantamanto’s vibrant ecosystem.
Mr Sammy Oteng, Senior Community Engagement Manager of the Or Foundation announced the donation at a press conference in Accra.
He said the funds were to specifically cover the cost of lumber procured on credit from the neighbouring Accra Timber Market, and that the gesture was part of a broader emergency relief fund of GHS 15 million that The Or Foundation had pledged to support Kantamanto Market’s recovery.
He called for additional support from the global fashion industry to the fund.
Mr Oteng said the Foundation was closely coordinating with the market leadership to incorporate basic fire safety measures into the rebuilding process.
“Since the fire, The Or Foundation’s team of over 100 young Ghanaians has established relief tents within the market, offering essential support such as shade, first aid, water, and face masks for individuals clearing debris and helping in rebuilding.
“The organisation has also funded the deployment of heavy equipment, including trucks and a payloader, in partnership with the Accra Metropolitan Assembly to remove debris from the market to the Adepa Dump Site North of Accra,” he stated.
“In addition to logistical support, the organisation has provided immediate financial assistance to those injured or affected by the fire, covering thousands of Ghana Cedis in hospital bills,” Mr Oteng emphasised.
He said the Foundation was currently compiling records of impacted individuals to facilitate the distribution of direct relief funds.
He said the Second-hand Solidarity Fund (SSF) established by the Foundation had distributed over USD 500,000 in direct grants to more than 1,500 Kantamanto Market members since 2020 as well as facilitated the installation of over 500 fire extinguishers across the market.
Madam Gloria Assiamah, an upcycling section leader expressed gratitude to The Or Foundation for continued support.
“The Or Foundation is not a stranger to this market. They’ve been by our side in many ways, so when the fire happened and I saw the team on the ground doing whatever they could to support us, I wasn’t surprised but found some comfort.
“Because I have faith that they will see us through rebuilding and support us getting back on our feet,” she said.
Madam Assiamah called on the global fashion industry to join in supporting Kantamanto Market’s recovery.
Mr. Adutwum Ata Manu, Kantamanto Market Manager commended the Foundation for their continuous support for the past two to three years, describing their intervention as extraordinary.
“This time, we were without hope, and they came to our rescue because of the strong ties of friendship we share,” Mr. Manu said.
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