#Ghana #Accra #Kantamanto Market #Secondhand Clothing #Or Foundation

The Or Foundation Steps Up for Kantamanto Market Fire Victims

On January 1, 2025, a catastrophic fire swept through the Kantamanto Market in Accra, Ghana, which is renowned as the largest secondhand clothing market in the world. This disaster has deeply affected the livelihoods of over 30,000 workers and countless families who rely on this market for their daily income and survival. In response, the Or Foundation has pledged $1 million to provide immediate emergency relief to those impacted by this tragic event.

The Kantamanto Market is not merely a marketplace; it is a crucial hub for sustainable fashion and economic activity. Every week, approximately 15 million secondhand garments arrive from the Global North, which are then repurposed and sold by local vendors and upcyclers. The community’s efforts contribute to the circulation of 25 million items every month, offering an essential alternative to fast fashion. The fire has destroyed stores, goods, tools, and equipment, leaving many vendors in desperate need.

In light of this tragedy, the Or Foundation is mobilizing support not only for immediate assistance but also for long-term recovery plans. As part of their response, the organization will initiate cleanup operations and provide healthcare assistance to those injured or affected by the fire. Collaborating closely with community leaders, the Or Foundation aims to disburse immediate financial aid to impacted individuals, including retailers and upcyclers. This swift action is essential for restoring the livelihoods of those who have faced devastating losses.

The Or Foundation is leveraging its existing relationships with organizations like the Ghana Used Clothing Dealers Association (GUCDA) and the Accra Metropolitan Assembly to coordinate effective relief efforts. This outreach underscores the importance of community collaboration in the wake of disaster. The organization has been active in supporting the Kantamanto community through its Secondhand Solidarity Fund (SSF), having disbursed over $500,000 since its inception in 2020. This fund has previously supported vendors during the COVID-19 pandemic and after smaller fires in recent years, ensuring that the community remains resilient.

In a world increasingly aware of the impact of fashion on the environment, the Kantamanto Market symbolizes a sustainable approach to clothing consumption. The fire not only affects the local economy but also poses a threat to the global effort towards sustainable fashion practices. As such, the Or Foundation is calling for support from the fashion industry to help rejuvenate the market and restore its vital functions.

To keep the community and supporters updated, the Or Foundation will regularly share progress reports on social media platforms under the handle @theorispresent. Donations for the relief efforts can be made through their official site, ensuring that every contribution directly benefits those in need.

The Or Foundation recognizes the urgent need for solidarity and action in the face of this crisis. By uniting resources and support, there is hope for a full recovery of the Kantamanto Market, reinforcing its role as a pivotal player in the secondhand clothing ecosystem.

For more information on how to help, visit their website or engage with their social media channels as they navigate this recovery journey.