Katamanto fire disaster: Govt must lead reconstruction efforts – Abuakwa South MP-elect insists

The Member of Parliament-elect for the Abuakwa South constituency in the Eastern Region, Dr. Kingsley Agyemang, has urged the government to take immediate responsibility for the reconstruction of the Katamanto market in Accra’s central business district. His call follows a devastating fire outbreak on Thursday, which razed the market.

Reports from the media indicate that traders affected by the inferno have already initiated rebuilding efforts, relying on their technical expertise. However, addressing journalists shortly after his registration as an MP in Parliament, Dr. Agyemang underscored the need for a government-led reconstruction to ensure adherence to proper safety and structural standards.

“I understand they have begun reconstructing the market themselves, and I strongly oppose this approach. We cannot continue to repeat the mistakes of the past and expect different outcomes. The reconstruction of Katamanto must be a government-led initiative,” he remarked.

Dr. Agyemang emphasized that the new market design must incorporate sound engineering principles to mitigate the risk of similar disasters in the future. “Rebuilding the market in the same manner as before would be a grave error. The new structures must be professionally designed and constructed to address the vulnerabilities that contributed to this tragedy,” he stated.

While expressing profound sympathy for the affected traders and acknowledging their need to resume work, Dr. Agyemang maintained that the proper course of action was essential to avoid a recurrence of such disasters. “As much as I empathize with their plight, it is imperative that the government takes full charge of this process,” he reiterated.

Crucially, Dr. Agyemang called for the integration of an insurance framework into the reconstruction efforts. He stressed the importance of adhering to the Insurance Act, Act 1061 of 2021, which mandates that all commercial buildings must be insured. “Insurance must be a fundamental component of the new market. This is not merely a suggestion but a legal requirement of serious consequence. The act ensures that traders and their investments are protected, while fostering a culture of resilience and preparedness against unforeseen events,” he explained.

The Katamanto fire, which occurred in the early hours of the new year, devastated over 30,000 businesses and tragically claimed one life. The market, renowned as a hub for second-hand clothing, attracts thousands of traders and buyers daily.

Preliminary investigations by the Ghana National Fire Service point to faulty electrical wiring or potential arson as the likely cause of the blaze.

Meanwhile, a separate fire incident has been reported at the Kwadaso wood market in Kumasi, where over 130 stalls were destroyed.

In a related development, the Gbese Stool, under the leadership of Paramount Chief Nii Ayi Bonte II, has cautioned against the erection of wooden structures on the Katamanto land, asserting that the government does not own the property.

Fire outbreaks remain a perennial challenge during Ghana’s dry season, with markets and rural areas particularly vulnerable to such disasters.

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