Informal workers associations urge government to implement emergency support for traders affected by Kantamanto fire

Three informal workers associations have called on both the current and incoming governments to establish an emergency support scheme for traders impacted by the recent fire outbreak at the Kantamanto market.

In a statement signed by the leadership of the Greater Accra Markets Association (GAMA), the Union of Informal Workers Association of Ghana (UNIWA), and the Informal Hawkers and Vendors Association of Ghana (IHVAG), they also appealed to civil society and religious organizations to provide assistance to alleviate the hardships faced by the affected traders and foster a sense of collective support during this challenging time.

“We strongly believe that such a show of practical solidarity will help assuage the pain affected traders are going through now,” it said. 

The statement said:"on behalf of its affiliates and members in different sectors of Ghana's informal economy extends its deepest sympathies to our dear sisters and brothers, the entire trader population of Kantamanto who suffered losses in the raging fire that engulfed the Kantamanto Market on Wednesday, the 2nd day of January, 2025.”

Investigations

The associations called on the National Security and the Ghana National Fire Service to accelerate investigations into the cause of the fire.

They also expressed concern over the recurring fires at the Kantamanto market and urged authorities to take immediate action to prevent future incidents.

“We believe that the knowledge of the cause will help find a long-term solution to this recurring problem,” the statement said.

The association expressed their commitment to keep pushing for action from stakeholders until traders receive the help they need.