The devastating fire outbreak at Adum-Blue Light in Kumasi, Ghana, left a trail of destruction, impacting the livelihoods of numerous traders. In response to this tragedy, Hon. Bryan Acheampong, Member of Parliament for Abetifi, demonstrated remarkable generosity by donating a significant amount of GH¢300,000 from his personal funds to support the affected traders. This financial assistance aimed to provide immediate relief to those who bore the brunt of the inferno, which consumed businesses and properties. Hon. Acheampong’s visit to the scene on Tuesday, April 22, 2025, allowed him to interact directly with the traders, offering not only financial aid but also words of comfort and encouragement during a challenging time. Beyond the immediate monetary support, he also committed to a more substantial, long-term rebuilding effort.
Hon. Acheampong’s commitment to assisting the fire victims extended beyond immediate financial relief. He pledged to reconstruct a two-storey building housing over 200 shops, which was completely destroyed in the blaze. This building, located eastward of the Adum-Blue Light area, served as a vital commercial hub for the community. Recognizing the significance of this structure to the local economy, Hon. Acheampong envisioned its reconstruction as a pivotal step towards the revitalization of the affected area. However, cognizant of the cultural and traditional context, he made it clear that this ambitious endeavor was contingent upon receiving the blessing and permission of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the revered traditional leader of the Ashanti Kingdom. This gesture underscored his respect for the traditional authorities and his commitment to working within the established cultural framework.
Demonstrating a comprehensive approach to disaster relief, Hon. Acheampong’s generosity extended beyond the Adum-Blue Light fire. He also contributed a substantial sum of GH¢500,000 to victims of another fire disaster at Kantamanto, a major trading hub in Accra. This separate donation highlighted his consistent dedication to supporting communities facing hardship and his understanding of the widespread impact of such calamities. His actions reflected a broader commitment to national development and social responsibility, showcasing a proactive approach to addressing critical needs and fostering resilience within affected communities. These combined contributions painted a picture of a leader dedicated to the well-being of Ghanaians across the country.
The proposed reconstruction of the two-storey building at Adum-Blue Light was presented with a strong sense of responsibility and respect for local governance. Hon. Acheampong committed to seeking the necessary approvals and engaging in consultations with relevant authorities. He announced his intention to formally present his proposal to the Asantehene upon his return, demonstrating his commitment to following established protocols. Further consultations were also planned with the Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, and the Kumasi Mayor, ensuring that the reconstruction project aligned with regional and local development plans. This collaborative approach underscored Hon. Acheampong’s understanding of the importance of working within established governmental structures to ensure the project’s effectiveness and long-term sustainability.
Confident in his ability to deliver on his promise, Hon. Acheampong, also the CEO of Rock City Hotel—described as the largest hotel in Africa—assured the traders that the reconstruction project was well within his capacity. This assertion, backed by his successful business ventures, aimed to instill confidence in the affected traders and the wider community. He emphasized that the project was not merely a financial commitment but a personal endeavor, demonstrating his deep-seated dedication to the well-being of the affected community. Beyond the physical reconstruction, he envisioned empowering the traders to rebuild their businesses.
Looking ahead, Hon. Acheampong proposed a forward-thinking plan to ensure the long-term success of the rebuilt marketplace. He recommended that any additional funds raised or donated after the completion of the building should be directed towards equipping the traders with the resources they need to restart their businesses. This proactive approach aimed to not only rebuild the physical infrastructure but also to revitalize the economic activities within the market. By providing traders with the necessary capital and resources, he envisioned fostering a thriving commercial environment and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the Adum-Blue Light community. This holistic approach to disaster recovery underscored his commitment to building back better and creating a more resilient and prosperous future for the affected traders.
