In the aftermath of a destructive fire outbreak that occurred on Thursday, February 22, 2024, at Kokofu in the Bekwai Municipality, the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) in Bekwai swiftly mobilized its response team to assess the situation. Led by the Director, Mr Francis Siaw, the team arrived promptly to evaluate the extent of the damage and provided assistance to those affected.
The affected property, belonging to Mr. Osei Asibey, suffered significant losses with a single room completely engulfed by the fire. The assessment revealed the destruction of ten men's Kente cloths, two mattresses, bags, a bed, a ceiling fan, and various personal belongings. The emotional and financial toll on Mr. Osei Asibey was palpable as he surveyed the remnants of his property.
The most heartbreaking aspect of the incident was the injury sustained by a 13-year-old boy named Charles Nti. NADMO officials learned that Charles was playing with hand sanitizer near a naked flame, which triggered the fire. Mr. Siaw expressed his sympathy for the young victim and assured the community that NADMO would collaborate with relevant authorities to ensure that adequate support and resources are provided for Charles's recovery.
In a brief statement, Mr. Siaw emphasized the importance of fire safety education within communities and urged residents to exercise caution when handling flammable substances. He pledged NADMO's commitment to supporting the affected family and the community at large during this challenging period.
The NADMO Director further highlighted that NADMO would collaborate with local authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident, aiming to prevent similar occurrences in the future. As part of their response, NADMO is coordinating efforts to provide immediate relief to the affected family and is exploring avenues for long-term assistance in rebuilding the damaged property.
The community of Kokofu is coming together to support Mr. Osei Asibey, Charles Nti, and others affected by the fire outbreak, showcasing the resilience and solidarity that characterize these challenging times.