On Thursday morning, a fire engulfed over 15 structures in the Circle Odawna area of Accra, raising concerns about fire safety in one of the city’s busiest commercial hubs. The blaze, which broke out in the early hours, was met with a swift response from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), who managed to contain the flames before they could spread to a nearby warehouse and an additional 200 structures in the vicinity.
Witnesses described the fire as intense, with flames spreading quickly through the wooden structures that make up much of the area’s market. Many vendors lost their stalls, and with them, their livelihoods. “This area is prone to fires, and many of us have suffered losses over the years,” one vendor shared. The incident occurred close to the site of a recent fire that had similarly destroyed several structures, adding to the frustration and apprehension among local merchants.
As GNFS personnel work to determine the cause of the fire, they have urged residents and business owners to follow strict fire safety measures to prevent further incidents. Frequent fires in Accra’s market areas, like Circle Odawna, underscore the need for better infrastructure, fire prevention education, and access to resources that can minimize the risks faced by these vulnerable communities. Local authorities have pledged to review safety regulations and consider structural adjustments that could reduce the chances of future fires, such as establishing firebreaks and increasing fire hydrants in the area.
The GNFS has emphasized that overcrowded markets with limited emergency access make their job challenging and are a significant factor in the spread of fires. This recent incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proactive fire management in Accra’s busy marketplaces, where a single spark can cause devastating losses.
