By Harriet Ann ADJABENG (Akuvi Adjabs)
Kantamanto Market, located in the heart of Accra, is a vibrant hub of commerce and community, renowned as Ghana’s largest second-hand goods market. It serves as a crucial lifeline for thousands of traders, tailors and artisans while offering affordable clothing to millions of Ghanaians.
However, in recent years, Kantamanto has become synonymous with devastating fire outbreaks, which not only destroy property but also expose the underlying vulnerabilities of its operations.
Each fire ignites more than just physical flames—it sparks social outrage, economic despair and heated debates about the unregulated nature of the market. While fires are often attributed to electrical faults or arson, their recurring nature points to deeper systemic issues that demand urgent attention.
The market in flames: Social reactions and public discourse
Every time a fire engulfs Kantamanto Market, the social response is immediate and visceral. Traders cry out in despair as they watch their goods and livelihoods turn to ashes, and the public floods social media with messages of support and frustration. Questions abound: “Why does this keep happening?” “Who is responsible?” “Could this be prevented?”
Among these reactions, accusations of conspiracy often emerge. Some traders suspect foul play, believing fires are intentionally set to displace them and pave the way for redevelopment projects. Others blame the lack of government oversight, pointing to the absence of basic safety standards and effective fire prevention measures.
Such sentiments reveal a critical trust deficit between traders, market authorities and policy-makers. Without clear answers or accountability, speculation dominates the discourse, making it difficult to chart a unified path forward.
Economic and social impacts of fire outbreaks
The toll of these fires on Kantamanto’s traders is immeasurable. Most traders operate on razor-thin profit margins, with little to no insurance coverage. A single fire can wipe out years of hard work, leaving families destitute and traders struggling to rebuild.
Beyond individual losses, the fires disrupt the market’s role in Ghana’s circular economy. Kantamanto is a linchpin of sustainable fashion, offering second-hand clothing as an affordable and environmentally-friendly alternative to fast fashion. Fires not only destroy inventory but also contribute to environmental degradation through the incineration of textiles and the generation of toxic waste.
For the broader economy, the recurrent disruptions in Kantamanto hinder trade and reduce consumer confidence in informal markets. The ripple-effects extend far beyond Accra, affecting supply chains and livelihoods nationwide.
What fuels the flames? Underlying issues
The recurring fires at Kantamanto are not isolated incidents, but symptoms of systemic challenges:
- Unregulated operations: The market’s layout is a maze of makeshift stalls, overcrowded walkways and tangled electrical wiring. These conditions make it difficult to enforce safety standards or respond quickly in emergencies.
- Weak infrastructure: Kantamanto’s infrastructure was not designed to accommodate its current scale of operations. Lack of access to water sources and fire hydrants further exacerbates the challenges of controlling fires once they start.
- Poor waste management: The market generates significant amounts of textile waste, much of which is improperly stored or disposed of. This creates a combustible environment, increasing the risk of fire outbreaks.
- Policy gaps: Despite its economic importance, Kantamanto operates largely informally, with fragmented oversight from multiple agencies. The absence of a comprehensive regulatory framework leaves traders and the market vulnerable to disasters.
Pathways to resilience: What needs to change?
To prevent future fires and safeguard the livelihoods of Kantamanto’s traders, a multi-faceted approach is needed. Here are some actionable recommendations:
- Develop a comprehensive regulatory framework: Policy-makers must create clear and enforceable regulations for market operations. This includes zoning laws, safety standards and waste management protocols tailored to the unique needs of Kantamanto.
- Invest in market infrastructure: Upgrading Kantamanto’s infrastructure is essential. Fire-resistant building materials, accessible fire hydrants and reliable electrical systems can significantly reduce fire risks.
- Introduce fire insurance for traders: A subsidised insurance scheme could help traders recover from losses and rebuild after disasters. This would reduce the economic impact of fires and provide a safety net for vulnerable traders.
- Strengthen waste management: A formalised waste management system is crucial. This could involve partnerships with recycling companies to repurpose textile waste and reduce combustible materials within the market.
- Enhance emergency response: Training market leaders and traders in fire prevention and response can empower them to act swiftly during emergencies. Installing fire alarms and extinguishers in key areas would also improve preparedness.
- Build trust through collaboration: Addressing the mistrust between traders and authorities is key to successful reform. Regular dialogue and inclusive decision-making processes can foster a sense of ownership and cooperation among all stakeholders.
Conclusion: turning crisis into opportunity
The fires at Kantamanto Market are a stark reminder of the challenges facing Ghana’s informal sector. However, they also present an opportunity to rethink and reorganise one of the country’s most vital economic hubs. By addressing the root causes of these disasters and implementing sustainable policies, Kantamanto can emerge stronger, safer and more resilient.
It is time for all stakeholders—government, traders, civil society and consumers—to work together to transform Kantamanto into a model of sustainable and organised commerce. Let the flames of controversy ignite not just outrage but also action, paving the way for a brighter future for all who depend on this iconic market.
