The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has commenced round-the-clock construction of permanent single-room housing units for victims of the devastating fire outbreak at Kofikrom, in Avenor, as part of efforts to improve living conditions and reduce the risk of future fire incidents.
The project has seen 10 rooms reach lintel level, while more than 100 others have progressed to the second course of blockwork.
The Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, inspected the progress of work during a visit to the site on Monday, October 26, 2026, and expressed optimism that the first phase of the project would be completed within one week.
During the inspection, the Mayor assessed the pace of construction, interacted with workers and urged the affected residents to mobilise and actively participate in the ongoing works to ensure their timely completion.
Workers at the site were seen laying concrete blocks for the proposed single-room housing units, with the structures at various stages of development. While some had reached lintel level, others remained in the early stages of blockwork.
Speaking during the visit, Mr Allotey reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to providing safer and more durable accommodation for the affected residents.
He explained that the redevelopment was intended to address the dangers associated with the widespread use of makeshift wooden structures in the settlement, which increase residents’ vulnerability to fire outbreaks.
The Mayor said the decision to undertake construction around the clock was aimed at accelerating the delivery of the housing units and minimising delays in providing permanent accommodation for the affected squatters.
He further stressed that the Assembly was determined to transform the settlement into a more organised residential environment with improved access to essential amenities and infrastructure.
As part of the redevelopment plans, Mr Allotey had earlier announced that electricity, borehole water supply and streetlights would be provided free of charge to improve residents’ safety, security and comfort.
The housing project follows a devastating fire outbreak at Kofikrom in the North Industrial Area, which destroyed numerous makeshift wooden structures, displaced several residents and claimed the lives of a mother and her daughter.
The fire also affected portions of adjoining industrial facilities, including Duraplast, raising concerns about the safety of residents living close to industrial installations.
Following the disaster, the Assembly undertook clearance exercises to remove burnt structures, debris and other obstructions to restore access to the area and prepare the site for redevelopment.
By: Bernard Mensah
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