Hon. Ralph Poku-Adusei, Member of Parliament for Bekwai, has personally funded the repair of the Bekwai fire tender’s engine. During a recent parliamentary session, he revealed that he contributed GHC60,000 from his own resources to address the engine issues, ensuring the fire service in his constituency remains operational.
This proactive approach contrasts sharply with the situation in Obuasi, where two MPs represent Obuasi East and Obuasi West. Despite the Obuasi fire service requiring GHC100,000 for a new engine, the Adansi Media Coalition for Development has taken the initiative to raise the necessary funds. To date, GHC31,000 has been collected through contributions from individuals and businesses, yet there has been no significant intervention from the local MPs.
The repercussions of this inaction are evident. On February 2nd, a fire ravaged an eight-bedroom house in Obuasi’s Bogobiri area. Due to the non-functional local fire tender, assistance had to come from the neighboring Fomena district, by which time the majority of the house was destroyed. In another incident, a seven-bedroom house caught fire, resulting in one room being completely burnt before the flames were extinguished, with the remaining rooms sustaining partial damage.
These incidents are part of a troubling trend of fire outbreaks in Ghana this year. Notably, a devastating fire at Accra’s Kantamanto Market on January 2nd destroyed thousands of stalls and goods worth millions of cedis, affecting approximately 8,000 traders. Similarly, a fire at the Fineprint Warehouse in Tema’s Industrial Area was reported on February 10th, though it was successfully contained by the Ghana National Fire Service. 
The contrast in responses between the Bekwai and Obuasi MPs raises concerns about the commitment of our MPs to our welfare. While Hon. Poku-Adusei has taken decisive action to ensure the safety of the people and properties in Bekwai, the MPs of Obuasi East and Obuasi West have yet to make similar contributions, leaving us vulnerable to future fire disasters.
The Adansi Media Coalition for Development continues to appeal for donations to meet the remaining funding gap for the Obuasi fire tender. Contributions can be made at any of the radio stations in Obuasi or via Mobile Money (MoMo) to 0541442128 (Robert Anokye Gyamfi).
As fire outbreaks remain an ongoing threat, it is imperative that elected representatives prioritize the safety of their constituents. Hon. Ralph Poku-Adusei has set an example of decisive leadership, and it is time for the MPs of Obuasi East and Obuasi West to step up and do the same before more lives and properties are lost.