The recent fire outbreak at the Zabzugu market has dealt a major blow to the local agricultural economy, with traders losing their sources of livelihood.
Speaking on Bryt FM, the Member of Parliament for Zabzugu, Umar Alhassan, described the market as a key driver of economic activity in the area.
He noted that Zabzugu, located within Ghana’s eastern corridor, is widely known for producing some of the best “pona” yam in the country. On market days, more than 20 trucks are loaded with yam and other foodstuffs for transport to major cities such as Accra and Kumasi. The market also attracts traders from across the border, contributing significantly to Ghana’s food basket and cross-border trade.
According to the MP, most traders do not have insurance coverage, making the impact of the fire even more devastating. He explained that many of the affected individuals depended entirely on their businesses to support their families and pay their children’s school fees.
“What happened today means that someone’s only source of income is gone,” he lamented.
He has pledged to engage market women, business owners, and other stakeholders to determine immediate support measures. He also appealed to the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and non-governmental organisations to come to the aid of the affected traders.
Hon. Alhassan assured constituents that he will pursue all possible avenues to support the victims and ensure that preventive measures are put in place to avoid future occurrences.
Source:Mybrytfmonline.com/Amuzu Priscilla
