#Ghana #Accra #Kantamanto Market #The Or Foundation #Ghana Fire Relief

The Or Foundation's Commitment to Kantamanto Market

In a significant move, The Or Foundation has pledged $1 million USD towards immediate relief efforts in the aftermath of a catastrophic fire that struck Kantamanto Market, known as the largest secondhand clothing market globally. This market plays a crucial role in the local economy, serving as a center for reuse and repair, and its destruction has left thousands of workers in precarious situations.

Context of the Catastrophe

The fire, which occurred on January 1, 2025, decimated a marketplace that receives over 15 million secondhand garments weekly from the Global North. Each month, this vibrant community of more than 30,000 people is responsible for circulating around 25 million pieces of clothing through resale, repair, and upcycling. This market has not only provided livelihoods but has also countered the threats of fast fashion by promoting sustainable practices.

Immediate Relief Efforts

In response to the devastating impact of the fire, The Or Foundation is actively moving to allocate funds for cleanup operations and to assist both the injured and those suffering from the fallout of the disaster. They are collaborating closely with market leaders and local organizations to effectively mobilize resources aimed at rebuilding the market and providing direct financial aid to those impacted, including retailers and porters, commonly referred to as kayayei.

This response is part of a broader initiative, continuing the work of The Or Foundation’s Secondhand Solidarity Fund (SSF), which has already distributed over $500,000 since its launch in 2020, catering to various community needs during crises, including pandemic-related assistance and reparations from previous market fires.

The Continuing Fight Against Fashion Waste

The Or Foundation's efforts highlight a pivotal moment: the recognition that the fashion industry must take accountability for its impact on communities like those surrounding Kantamanto Market. By garnering support from industry stakeholders, the organization aims to implement systemic changes that promote sustainability while also rebuilding from this disaster.

Looking Forward

As relief operations unfold, The Or Foundation is using its social media platforms to deliver regular updates regarding their efforts and ongoing investigations into the incident. Donations are being solicited to support the community's recovery process. The foundation is determined not only to revive the market but also to push for long-lasting changes in how the fashion industry approaches waste and community welfare.

For more information, or to contribute to the relief fund, visit their official donation page: Kantamanto Fire Relief Fund.

About The Or Foundation

The Or Foundation is a not-for-profit organization committed to developing solutions addressing the fashion industry's waste crisis, particularly for communities directly affected by it. Based out of Accra, Ghana, they work tirelessly to design and implement innovative strategies that drive change in local and global contexts.

Their comprehensive approach combines advocacy, research, community support, and educational initiatives to create a more sustainable fashion ecosystem. To learn more about their mission and ongoing efforts, visit www.theor.org.