Early on Friday, September 19, 2025, a fire destroyed parts of Accra’s Madina Market, destroying a number of stores and wooden buildings.
Witnesses report that the fire started at around 1:00 a.m., sending dense smoke columns into the night sky and attracting worried locals and traders to the area. Before firefighters arrived, several people watched in horror as their investments caught fire.
At 1:36 a.m., the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) acknowledged receiving an emergency call. Although crews reached the market in two minutes, four more fire engines had to be sent in due to the fire’s severity and the absence of surrounding hydrants.
“The fire affected wooden structures, two corn milling shops, and nine containers,” the GNFS noted in a statement. “It was confined at 3:07 a.m., brought under control at 3:19 a.m., and completely extinguished at 4:40 a.m.”
Despite the substantial property damage, firefighters were able to stop the fire from spreading to adjacent buildings and a nearby one-story warehouse. There were no recorded casualties.
Investigations are still underway to determine the cause of the incident.
Reiterating its dedication to protecting people and property, the GNFS reassured the public, emphasizing the need of prompt reactions and collaboration during emergencies.
