The government has donated one million cedis to aid victims of the fire disaster that ravaged Kantamanto Market in Accra on January 2, 2025.
The donation fulfills a promise made by the President shortly after his inauguration, following a meeting with the Kantamanto Traders Association, which includes 13 groups. Chief of Staff Mr. Julius Debrah, representing President John Dramani Mahama, announced the government’s commitment to expedite plans for transforming the market into a modern multi-purpose facility, supporting the businesses of used clothes dealers and other traders. “There is hope. The President’s mandate is to resolve issues and assist impartially,” Mr. Debrah stated.
The Chief of Staff conveyed the government’s condolences for the significant losses during these challenging times. He stressed the importance of open dialogue with traders to redesign the area, ensure quick response access, and enhance security to avert future calamities.
The Chairman of the Kantamanto Traders Association, Rev. Opoku Afreh, expressed gratitude to the President for the support on behalf of the leadership of the 13 groups. He reported that over half of Kantamanto was utterly destroyed, with millions in sales yet to be banked. “One wholesale outlet, previously untouched, and clothes valued at $1.7 million were lost,” he highlighted.
Rev. Opoku revealed a deal with ACCESS Bank, ready to provide a $100 million loan for constructing a modern market. However, he urged government intervention to resolve a land dispute. Deputy Chiefs of Staff Stanislav Dogbe and Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, Marietta Brew Oppong, the President’s legal advisor, and other Presidential staff attended the presentation.
