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A massive fire has broken out at the Techiman Central Market in Ghana's Bono East Region, destroying numerous shops and causing significant losses to goods and property.
Eyewitnesses reported that the blaze spread rapidly, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. Divisional Officer I (DOI) Alex King Nartey of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) confirmed that firefighters are working diligently to bring the fire under control and prevent it from spreading to nearby areas.
Separate incident: Kantamanto market fire in Accra
Just last week, a major fire ravaged the Kantamanto Market in central Accra, causing extensive damage to shops in the Kantamanto Railways area. The blaze, which began around 1:00 a.m., required a large-scale firefighting operation, with 13 fire tenders deployed from various stations across Greater Accra.
Initially, the GNFS dispatched five fire appliances from Makola, the Greater Accra Regional Headquarters, the National Headquarters, Flagstaff House, and Parliament House. The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) was also called in to disconnect power in the area, ensuring safe firefighting operations. Additional fire appliances from Circle, Trade Fair, and Dansoman were later deployed, bringing the total to eight within an hour.
Concerns over rising market fires
The rising frequency of market fires in Ghana has become a serious national concern. In recent weeks, three major markets have been devastated by fires, with the causes of these incidents still under investigation.
This alarming trend has resulted in massive financial losses, the destruction of livelihoods, and heightened risks to public safety. Traders, citizens, and authorities are calling for urgent action to address the underlying causes and strengthen fire prevention measures at these critical commercial centres.
Stakeholders and authorities are being urged to prioritise fire safety reforms and infrastructure upgrades to protect both lives and properties from future outbreaks.
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