The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Northern Regional Command has launched an inter-market fire safety quiz competition in Tamale
The event, held at the Tamale Central Market, brought together traders, market leaders, fire safety officials, and representatives of the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly. Participating markets included Kukuo Market, Central Market, Aboabo Market, Kalpohin Market, and Lamashegu Market.
Delivering his address, the Northern Regional Fire Officer, ACFO I Joseph Koranteng, described fire as one of the most destructive disasters, particularly in congested market environments where electrical faults and human negligence often trigger outbreaks. He noted that market fires have devastated major trading hubs such as Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Koforidua, leading to the loss of lives, livelihoods, businesses, and biodiversity.
He emphasized that fire prevention and management are shared responsibilities and urged traders and transport operators to take fire safety education seriously, especially during the dry season when outbreaks are rampant. ACFO Koranteng outlined initiatives including market safety audits, regular patrols, intensified education campaigns, the establishment of fire posts in major markets, and periodic inter-market quiz competitions to assess and improve traders’ knowledge.
He explained that despite sustained sensitization efforts, fires continue to ravage markets, hence the need to evaluate the impact of education through stakeholder engagement and quizzes. He further advised traders to keep fire extinguishers in their shops to control fires at early stages and encouraged participants to view the quiz as a learning opportunity.
Speaking at the event, the Mayor of Tamale, Abu Takoro, commended the Fire Service for its innovative approach, stressing that fire safety goes beyond emergency response to include prevention and awareness. He described markets as the heartbeat of the metropolis and assured the Fire Service of the Assembly’s full support in strengthening inspections, improving infrastructure, and sustaining public education.
At the end of the competition, Lamashegu Market emerged as the winner, while the other markets were commended for their active participation. The winners of the competition expressed gratitude to the Fire Service for organizing the program and said more such events should be organized, as they help educate traders further on the dangers of fires.