Editorial
Apromase fire and other matters
● Many structures were destroyed at Sofoline recently
Dear Editor,
I have been trying to wrap my mind around the death of the policeman, his wife and three-month-old baby at Apromase in the Ashanti Region, but to no avail.
As I express my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, it beats my mind that there was no escape route for the family in the heat of the moment, if the media reports are anything to go by. We are told the victims were heard shouting for help but nobody could go to their rescue. How could that be?
We are told Police Intelligence and Ghana Fire Service had begun investigating the matter, and I would be glad if they conclude that quickly and reveal any foul play there might be in the incident.
Many a time I have read news of this nature, and this incident at Apromase was happening almost a year after a similar incident at Gomoa Buduburam, in the Central Region, where a family of seven got burnt on January, 15, 2022.
I am not privy to the outcome of investigation into the Buduburam incident but I think the police would do well, this time, to tell us what happened to this young policeman and his family, beyond what we have read in the newspapers.
I want to encourage the public to be alert when it comes to fire outbreaks. It is sad the ‘security systems’ we put in place to prevent burglary turnout to be our ‘nemesis’ in the event of fire outbreak.
Fire officers often advise that buildings or rooms should have at least two exits but many of our rented apartments are such that there is only one entrance or escape route. We need to improve on this and possibly install effective but less expensive fire alarms in our homes.
Prior to the Apromase incident, there had been other fire outbreaks early this year. These include the one at Sofoline which razed down three carpentry shops and a pepper mill and another outbreak at a compound house at Fante New Town all in the Ashanti Region.
The year is still young and we need to be more alert and take fire precautions seriously.
Yunusah Essandoh,
Achimota-Accra.
Editorial
Concern over mentally ill persons roaming Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange
Dear Sir
I write to express my concern over the growing number of mentally ill individuals roaming the Kwame Nkrumah Circle Interchange in Accra.
This area, a vital transportation hub and commercial centre, has increasingly become home to several persons visibly suffering from mental health issues, often without adequate care or supervision.
This situation poses risks both to the affected individuals and the general public. Some of these individuals are exposed to traffic hazards, unsanitary conditions, and in some cases, hostile treatment from passersby.
There have also been reports of occasional erratic behaviour, which causes fear and discomfort among commuters and vendors.
Mental health is a public health issue, and these individuals deserve compassion, medical attention, and a safe environment.
I urge the Ministry of Health, the Accra Metropolitan Assembly, and relevant NGOs to collaborate on a sustainable solution including mental health outreach programmes, rehabilitation, and safe housing.
Kwame Nkrumah Circle should be a symbol of progress, not a place where the vulnerable are left to struggle. Let us act with urgency and humanity.
From John Boateng
Kwame Nkrumah Circle
Editorial
Parents should encourage their wards writing BECE
Dear Editor,
AS the 2025 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE) takes off across the country starting Wednesday, I write to encourage all candidates taking part in this important step in their academic journey.
Out of a total of 603,328 candidates taking the examination this year, 306,078 are females, whiles the rest 297,250 are males.
Over the years, the examination begins on Monday and ended on Friday but per the timetable, this year’s candidates started on Wednesday and will end next week.
The BECE is not just an exam, it is a milestone from one stage to another. It represents years of hardwork, dedication and the dreams of countless students who hope to continue their education and build a brighter future.
This is where the role of parents, teachers and society become beneficial. Let us offer not only academic support but emotional encouragement to them.
I also appeal to educational authorities to ensure fairness, proper supervision and transparency throughout the examination period.
The journey may be challenging, but with time, focus and discipline they can make it.
I wish to use this platform to wish all of them well.
Naa Koshie, Teshie
