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Five Members of Parliament (MPs) from Kumasi have visited Suame Magazine Zone 21 to assess the aftermath of a devastating fire outbreak, express their support for affected artisans and traders, and push for urgent fire prevention measures.
The delegation included Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye (Bantama MP), Hon. Vincent Ekow Assafuah (Tafo MP), Hon. Michael Aidoo (Oforikrom MP), Hon. Lawyer John Darko (Suame MP), and Hon. Lawyer Nana Agyei Baffour (Manhyia South MP).
The visit follows the February 1, 2025, fire incident, which ravaged several workshops, vehicles, and spare parts, leaving artisans and business owners facing severe losses.
MPs Express Sympathy, Pledge Support
During their interaction with victims, Hon. Asenso-Boakye, speaking on behalf of the MPs, extended their deepest sympathies and reaffirmed their commitment to securing both immediate relief and long-term solutions to prevent such disasters.
“This fire has caused extensive losses, affecting livelihoods and businesses. We are here not only to commiserate but to ensure that measures are put in place to prevent such disasters in the future,” he assured.
The MPs acknowledged the pivotal role of Suame MP, Lawyer John Darko, in drawing their attention to the tragedy, underscoring their collective resolve to address the challenges in Kumasi’s industrial hub.
Identifying Causes, Advocating Fire Prevention Strategies
The lawmakers identified several contributing factors to the frequent fire outbreaks in Suame Magazine, including:
- Poor planning and congestion within the industrial enclave
- Use of flammable materials in workshop construction
- Faulty and illegal electrical connections
To mitigate these risks, they called for urgent interventions, including:
- Regular fire safety education and training for artisans
- Improved urban planning and reorganization of workshops
- Strict enforcement of electrical and fire safety regulations
- Establishment of a well-equipped fire station within Suame Magazine
GNAG Calls for Government and Stakeholder Action
During the visit, Ghana National Association of Garages (GNAG) Regional Chairman, Lukeman Mohammed Nuhu Appiadu, expressed deep sympathy for affected artisans and reaffirmed GNAG’s commitment to their recovery. He also urged authorities to move beyond verbal assurances and implement concrete solutions.
He outlined key demands, including:
- Permanent fire tenders stationed within Suame Magazine
- Installation of CCTV cameras to monitor fire hazards
- Technology transfer programs to equip artisans for modern vehicle repairs
- Improved infrastructure, including better roads, hospitals, and stable electricity supply
- Sustainable financial support for affected businesses
- “Our members have lost their livelihoods overnight. We need urgent interventions, including fire safety education, financial assistance, and better infrastructure to prevent such incidents in the future,” he stressed.
A Call for Immediate Action
The MPs assured victims that they would engage government agencies and relevant stakeholders to develop a comprehensive fire prevention strategy for Suame Magazine.
They also called on the government to provide financial relief and support packages to artisans struggling to rebuild.
As victims begin the difficult process of recovery, the visit by MPs and GNAG leaders has renewed hope that lasting solutions will be implemented to protect livelihoods and prevent future disasters.
By Simon Opoku Afriyie
