The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA), together with its Security Council, has issued a stern directive to traders at the Kumasi City Market to remove all flammable and explosive materials from their shops between Wednesday, 26th February, 2026 and Sunday, 1st March, 2026.
The affected items include bullets, carbides and other highly combustible materials believed to pose serious fire risks. The directive comes in response to the increasing spate of fire outbreaks at the market in recent years, which have led to the destruction of goods and capital belonging to several traders.
According to the Assembly, the decision follows investigations into two separate fire incidents recorded at the market in 2026 alone. Findings from these investigations revealed that explosive materials played a significant role in fueling the fires and worsening their impact.
Speaking in an interview, the Kumasi Metropolitan Mayor, Hon. Richard Ofori Agyemang, stressed that the Assembly will not compromise on safety. “We are banning all combustible and explosive items from the Kumasi City Market. Traders have from today, 26th February to Sunday, 1st March to remove such materials from their shops,” he stated.
He further warned that strict enforcement will begin next week. “From Monday, 2nd March, 2026, I will personally lead a joint team of Military and Police officers into the market. Any prohibited items found in shops will be seized without exception,” he cautioned.
Hon. Agyemang also disclosed that affected traders will be relocated to the Racecourse to ensure safety and proper regulation. He added that the Assembly will collaborate with Kwame Nkrumah University Of Science And Technology (KNUST) to provide specially designed containers to minimise risks at the new site.
The Assembly believes the measures will help prevent future fire disasters and protect the livelihoods of traders at the market.
By; Nana Yaw Owusu (0240782639)
