Ghana’s Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has donated GH¢200,000 to support the victims of the recent fire at the Kejetia Market in Kumasi. This gesture is part of the government’s broader efforts to provide relief to those affected by the devastating blaze that destroyed numerous stalls and goods, causing significant financial losses to traders.
During a visit to the site, Dr. Bawumia expressed his sympathy and solidarity with the affected traders, promising that the government will continue to support them during this difficult time. He assured the victims that measures are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future and to improve market safety standards.
The Kejetia Market fire, which occurred earlier this month, has had a profound impact on the local economy, disrupting the livelihoods of many traders. The market is one of the largest in West Africa, and such incidents have far-reaching consequences for the regional economy. The Vice President’s donation aims to provide immediate relief to the affected traders and help them rebuild their businesses.
In addition to the financial support, Dr. Bawumia highlighted the government’s commitment to rehabilitating the market infrastructure. He announced that a comprehensive assessment of the damage is underway, and plans are being developed to restore and upgrade the market facilities. This includes improving fire safety measures to prevent future occurrences.
Local authorities and market leaders have welcomed the Vice President’s intervention, expressing gratitude for the swift response and the promise of ongoing support. The donation is expected to be used to provide emergency relief, including food, shelter, and medical assistance to the victims. It will also assist in the initial phases of rebuilding their businesses.
The Vice President’s visit and donation underscore the government’s proactive approach to disaster management and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are vital to Ghana’s economy. SMEs, particularly those operating in markets like Kejetia, play a crucial role in providing employment and driving economic growth.
Dr. Bawumia also called on other stakeholders, including private sector entities and non-governmental organizations, to assist in the recovery efforts. He emphasized the importance of a collective approach in addressing the immediate needs of the victims and in ensuring the long-term resilience of market infrastructure.
The fire at Kejetia Market has reignited discussions about the need for enhanced safety protocols in public markets across Ghana. Many traders and market users have called for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and better emergency response mechanisms. The government has acknowledged these concerns and is taking steps to address them through policy reforms and investments in market infrastructure.
In conclusion, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s donation of GH¢200,000 to the victims of the Kejetia Market fire demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting those affected by the disaster. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance market safety and resilience, ensuring that traders can continue to operate in a secure and sustainable environment.
Source of this article: ghanaweb.com
