Fire Razes Suame Magazine Shops, Millions in Losses Reported

A devastating late-night fire swept through the Suame Magazine in Kumasi, Ashanti Region, leaving a trail of destruction and millions of Ghana cedis in losses. The fire, which started around 10:30 pm, reportedly began in two shops filled with charcoal and quickly spread to nearby shops, including those selling spare parts.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the Ghana National Fire Service rushing to the scene after a distress call. However, their efforts to contain the blaze were initially futile, leading to accusations of delayed response times. “The fire tender from Mampongteng came first, but the fire hadn’t even gutted five cars. But it couldn’t douse the fire. It took the Ejisu fire tender to extinguish the fire,” a witness recounted.

The cause of the fire remains unknown, but traders suspect an electrical fault might have triggered the blaze. This incident has reignited concerns about fire safety in the area, with artisans and traders calling for the establishment of a dedicated fire station. The absence of a nearby fire station has been blamed for the extensive damage, with many business owners expressing frustration over the delayed response.

Casualties and Losses

No casualties have been reported, but the economic impact is significant, with properties worth millions of Ghana cedis destroyed. The affected traders are now counting their losses, with many left to pick up the pieces and rebuild their businesses.

Previous Incidents

This is not the first time Suame Magazine has been hit by a devastating fire. In January 2025, a similar incident destroyed over 30 shops and vehicles, with losses estimated in the millions. The area has experienced recurring fire incidents due to the highly combustible materials used in the businesses