Authorities in Kumasi have imposed an immediate ban on the sale and storage of combustible materials at the Kejetia Market Complex, citing ongoing fire hazards at the densely populated trading centre.

The directive, announced by Kumasi Mayor Richard Ofori Agyemang Boadi, follows a decision by the Metro Security Council to reduce the risk of future market fires that could endanger lives and property. The restriction will remain in force through March 1.

“The metro security council has taken a decision we are banning all combustible items at the Kejetia Market Complex. They are to move their items,” Boadi told reporters.

He added that enforcement measures will intensify from next week, with security agencies deployed to ensure traders comply.

“From Monday we will deploy a team of military and policemen to make sure we seize such items. And it is giving us so much problems as far as fire is concerned, so we are with immediate effect taking this step…It is the same activity that brought about the fire incident four years ago.

“We will ask all of them to come and meet the metro fire officer at KMA tomorrow. We are moving all of them immediately to Racecourse.”

Kejetia Market, considered one of the largest commercial hubs in West Africa, has previously suffered fire outbreaks that disrupted business activities and caused significant losses to traders.

City officials say the latest action is part of broader efforts to strengthen safety controls and prevent a repeat of past incidents.

Traders dealing in restricted items have been directed to relocate as preparations begin for heightened inspections and joint security operations in the coming days.