A devastating fire swept through the Nadowli market on Saturday, February 7, 2026, destroying several stalls and leaving traders counting heavy losses.
The fire reportedly started around 2:00 p.m. and spread rapidly through the market, consuming stalls and goods within a short period. Eyewitnesses said the blaze began after a woman who had just completed construction of a new stall allegedly set fire to nearby refuse, which quickly spiralled out of control.
Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service arrived promptly at the scene and began firefighting efforts, but their response was hampered by water shortages.
According to reports, the fire tender exhausted its water supply, and firefighters were unable to refill from the main hydrant in town, making it difficult to contain the blaze.
The District Chief Executive, Mary Haruna, also arrived at the scene to assess the situation and coordinate an emergency response. She mobilised residents to assist firefighters, with community members using buckets and basins in an attempt to control the flames.
Traders who rushed to the market upon hearing news of the fire could only watch helplessly as their stalls and goods were reduced to ashes.
Many lost their merchandise and property, raising concerns about their livelihoods and the economic impact on the local trading community.
