New Kejetia fire station reopens after a year-long renovation

Correspondence from the Ashanti Region

The New Kejetia Market is set to benefit from enhanced fire safety measures as its fire service station officially reopened after undergoing extensive renovations for nearly a year. Ernest Afayam, manager of the Kumasi City Market, who presided over the handover ceremony, assured total completion of the project and its readiness.

Speaking to GhanaWeb's Ashanti Regional Correspondent, Nana Peprah, following the handover, Afayam highlighted the critical role of the fire station in safeguarding the market. Adding that the facility was ready to house the fire service officers to ensure the prevention of fire and appearances.

He explained that the renovation was necessary due to the identified defects in the original structure. "In the course of duty, we realized that there were defects in the building. So we alerted the contractor who put up the facility to come and do their regular checks. The assessment led to a complete overhaul and reconstruction of the station".

According to him, the renovated facility now boasts improved amenities, including dedicated office space, a conference room, a kitchen, washrooms, and ample storage areas, providing a more comfortable and functional environment for fire service personnel. Mr Afayam noted that the absence of the station during the renovation had presented challenges, and its reopening would ensure a consistent and adequate presence of fire personnel at the market.

Afayam emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to fire safety. "As market managers, we have a responsibility to ensure that we roll out fire safety measures to prevent the occurrence of fire in the market," he said.

He outlined measures implemented by the KCML, such as designating fire hydrants as danger zones, deploying personnel to enforce safety regulations, and utilizing a public address system to educate market users on fire prevention strategies.

"This edifice here has revived hope for us. We know that now our fire service personnel would have a place to man, a place to sleep... So once the station is back, we have our fire and service vehicle stationed here, so that in the event of any fire occurrences, they'll be quick to ensure that they hit up and the facility will be safe."

He assured stakeholders that the KCML is committed to ensuring the ongoing protection and maintenance of the renovated fire station.