Disaster is looming in Kejetia Market in Kumasi as many fire extinguishers and hydrants have been blocked or nonfunctional, despite the declaration of the market as safe by National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) in 2019.
This was revealed when the Ashanti Regional Taskforce of NADMO conducted a crucial inspection of the Kejetia Market on October 7, 2025, to assess the safety and sanitation situation.
This inspection is important given the history of the Kejetia Market with regard to a fire outbreak in 2023 that led to a temporary closure for safety assessments.
The market features numerous exit points, police and fire posts, clinics, security cameras, smoke detectors, and water hydrants, but maintenance is clearly an issue.
Market women expressed concerns over poor sanitation, citing inadequate dustbins, indiscriminate littering, and improper waste disposal.
They requested regular waste collection, public education on hygiene, and additional cleaners to maintain cleanliness.
The Ashanti Regional Coordinating Council has directed the market management to step aside for investigations into allegations of mismanagement, including poor fire-readiness and sanitation.
The inspection aims to ensure compliance with safety and sanitation standards, addressing previous incidents and concerns raised. It’s a step towards preventing future incidents and improving the overall environment for traders and visitors.
