Fire Ravages Aboabo Extension, But Nearby Homes Spared by GNFS Action

A swift intervention by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) on Friday, 21st November 2025, prevented a devastating fire at Aboabo Extension in Kumasi from spreading to adjoining homes and shops, averting what could have been a far greater tragedy.

The blaze, which broke out in the early hours of the morning, ripped through 107 wooden structures that served as makeshift homes for more than 100 squatters. Witnesses say the fire spread rapidly due to the flammable materials used in constructing the huts, leaving residents with little time to salvage property.

In the absence of immediate professional response, some residents attempted to contain the flames using buckets of water and improvised tools. However, the intensity of the inferno quickly overwhelmed their efforts. Panic surged through the settlement as families scrambled to rescue children, elderly occupants, and essential belongings.

The situation was brought under control when two fire tenders from the Manhyia and KNUST fire stations arrived on the scene. Firefighters worked swiftly to suppress the blaze and stop it from reaching nearby residential buildings and commercial structures. Their timely response, according to residents, prevented what could have become a catastrophic community-wide disaster.

Speaking after operations, a GNFS officer noted that the congested layout of the settlement and the lack of access routes posed significant challenges. “The wooden structures were tightly packed, making it difficult for our trucks to manoeuvre. But our team acted quickly to contain the fire and ensure it did not spread further,” the officer said.

No fatalities were recorded, but several residents sustained minor injuries while attempting to escape or salvage personal effects. Many affected families have been left displaced, now relying on neighbours and local authorities for temporary support.

Community leaders are calling for urgent assistance for the displaced and for long-term measures to address the proliferation of high-risk wooden settlements in the area. They emphasised that such disasters will persist unless proper housing interventions and fire safety education are prioritised.

The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, though GNFS has launched investigations to establish the source and assess the extent of damage.