Ghana is grappling with a worrying surge in fire-related casualties, as the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reports a 33% increase in deaths in the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
According to newly released GNFS data, 16 lives were lost to fire incidents between January and June 2025, up from 12 during the same timeframe last year. Even more alarming is the spike in fire-related injuries, which jumped from 30 in 2024 to 110 in 2025, a staggering 266% increase.
This troubling trend highlights the escalating human cost of fire outbreaks and underscores the urgent need for improved safety practices and public education.
Common causes of fires in Ghana include faulty electrical wiring, gas cylinder explosions, mishandling of flammable materials, and rampant bushfires, especially during the dry season. In urban centers like Accra and Kumasi, the situation is worsened by overcrowded housing, informal settlements, and poor enforcement of safety regulations.
Past market fires in these cities have not only resulted in significant economic losses but also displaced thousands of traders. While many of these incidents may not be reflected in national fatality statistics, they often result in severe injuries and emotional trauma, placing enormous strain on the country’s limited burn care facilities.
Under the Ghana National Fire Service Act, 1997 (Act 537), the GNFS is mandated to enforce fire safety and prevention. In response to the rising casualties, the Service is expected to ramp up nationwide education campaigns, urging citizens to adopt basic safety habits, conduct routine electrical checks, and adhere to building codes.
The sharp rise in injuries also signals an increasing number of survivors living with debilitating burns and long-term health complications, further stretching Ghana’s healthcare resources.
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