Kwadaso MCE cracks down on refuse burning after Sofoline mechanic shop inferno
3rd February 2026
The Municipal Chief Executive for Kwadaso, Eric Assibey, has issued a strong warning to artisans operating around Sofoline, urging them to stop burning refuse within mechanic enclaves due to the serious fire risks involved.
In response to a recent blaze that destroyed a cluster of mechanic shops and reduced at least 34 vehicles to ashes, the Municipal Assembly is set to roll out a dedicated taskforce to monitor daily activities in markets, workshops and other high-risk areas to curb future fire outbreaks.
Initial findings from authorities point to improper waste burning near the workshops as the likely trigger of the inferno, raising fresh concerns about safety practices within the area.
Mr Assibey noted that careless disposal methods, especially open burning, could easily spark disasters capable of wiping out livelihoods and endangering lives.
Following the incident, affected artisans have begun reconstructing their damaged container shops under the supervision of officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) and municipal engineers, who are ensuring safety standards are observed.
The MCE, who toured the scene alongside the technical team, stressed that tighter monitoring would now be enforced to prevent similar occurrences.
He also appealed to traders and mechanics to prioritise proper sanitation, explaining that a cleaner working environment would significantly reduce fire hazards and improve overall safety.
As part of relief efforts, Mr Assibey presented 20 bundles of roofing sheets to the victims on behalf of the Regional Minister and the Municipal Assembly to support rebuilding works. He further assured them of continued government assistance to help restore their operations.
Speaking on behalf of the affected artisans, Master Lamusu expressed appreciation for the swift intervention and pledged that members would adopt safer practices moving forward to avoid future disasters and protect their livelihoods.