The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly has given approval for the Management of the China City Mall at Santasi to reconstruct the facility after it was completely destroyed by fire late October this year.
Speaking on Ghanakoma morning show on Akoma 87.9 FM in Kumasi with Sir John, on December 16,2025, the Metropolitan Chief Executive of the KMA, Richard Ofori-Agyeman Boadi, disclosed that the Assembly has approved for the reconstruction of the facility.
He disclosed that the permit for reconstruction has been approved but with strict safety and structural conditions to prevent a recurrence of such an incident.
The fire, which occurred on Thursday, October 30, 2025, reduced the newly opened mall to ashes, destroying goods and property worth thousands of cedis.
Thick plumes of smoke from the inferno could be seen from several metres away, drawing several emergency responders and onlookers to the scene.
Mr Boadi explained that the Assembly would exercise stricter oversight during the reconstruction process.
“They sought a permit to rebuild, and I’ve approved it,” he said.
“But, this time, the construction will be under the direct supervision of the Metro Engineer,” he told host Sir John.
He also disclosed that construction work was temporarily halted last week after engineers detected serious flaws in the integrity of the mall’s concrete flooring.
“We stopped them because the cement floor was compromised. We’ve directed that the damaged portions be removed entirely before new work begins. They wanted to start putting up pillars, but we made it clear that we won’t allow any substandard work this time,” the Mayor added.
He further emphasized that the reconstructed facility would not be opened to the public until a habitation permit is duly issued.
He stressed that safety features such as fire sprinklers and emergency access systems would be mandatory before approval for occupancy is granted.
“We thank God the fire didn’t start at the mall’s entrance where many people could have been trapped,” he said. “This time, all safety measures will be enforced to ensure the protection of users.”
He assured the people of Kumasi of the determination of the Assembly to ensure that the right thing is done.
By Benjamin Aidoo
