Victims of the recent Adum PZ market fire in Kumasi have rejected food donations from Interior Minister and Asawase MP, Mohammed Mubarak Muntaka, insisting that their most urgent need is rebuilding their businesses rather than receiving relief items.
The fire, which broke out on March 21, devastated numerous shops and left many traders struggling to recover. In response, Muntaka arrived at the scene with a truckload of supplies, including 1,500 bags of rice and 8,000 boxes of cooking oil. However, the affected traders declined the offer, arguing that food aid does not address their core problem—reconstructing the market and reviving their livelihoods.
A video circulating online captured the frustration of the victims as they jeered at the Minister and his team, calling for government intervention to restore the market infrastructure. Many also voiced concerns over potential eviction from the site, urging authorities to prioritize their long-term welfare instead of short-term relief.
While Muntaka defended his support efforts, he acknowledged the broader issue of frequent market fires and their impact on the local economy. He urged authorities to implement practical solutions to prevent future incidents and promised further assistance to help affected traders recover.
