Inferno Ravages Madina Ritz Slum, Destroys Over 50 Structures in Latest Fire Outbreak
A raging fire swept through a densely populated slum near the Madina Ritz Junction in Accra earlier today, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake as more than 50 wooden structures and metal containers were reduced to ashes.
The inferno, which is reported to have started at a local washing bay within the slum enclave, quickly spread through the area due to the close proximity of the structures and the flammable materials used in their construction. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos and panic as residents scrambled to salvage personal belongings while the flames tore through their homes and shops.
According to reports from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), firefighters from the Madina Fire Station arrived at the scene promptly after receiving the distress call. Firefighters battled the blaze for hours under challenging conditions, including limited access to water and congested pathways obstructed by debris and onlookers.
Officials from the GNFS confirmed that more than 50 wooden and metal structures were destroyed, rendering scores of residents homeless and business owners devastated. “We managed to bring the fire under control and prevent it from spreading to nearby permanent buildings, but the damage within the slum is extensive,” he said.
No fatalities have been reported, but a number of residents sustained minor injuries in their attempt to flee the burning structures. Emergency services were on hand to provide first aid, and efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage.
This marks the second major fire outbreak at Ritz Junction in less than a month. The previous incident, which occurred just weeks ago, similarly destroyed several makeshift homes and container shops, raising urgent questions about the safety of settlements in the area.
Many of the affected residents are now calling on government authorities and city planners to intervene and offer permanent solutions. “We have lost everything again. Last month we suffered, and now it has happened all over. We need help, and we need a safe place to live,” lamented a victim whose structure was among those destroyed.
Preliminary investigations by the fire service suggest that an electrical fault or negligence during the operation of electrical equipment at the washing bay may have caused the fire. However, a full investigation is still underway to determine the exact cause.
The incident has reignited debate over the proliferation of unregulated slum settlements across Accra and the persistent threat they pose in terms of fire safety, sanitation, and public health.
As the smoldering ruins cool, the displaced families and shop owners now face the difficult task of rebuilding their lives — many for the second time in just a few weeks.
