Ghana's Kantamanto Market Fire: Fashion Brands Urged to Help Rebuild
A devastating fire on January 2, 2025, consumed Accra’s Kantamanto Market, a vital hub in the global circular economy and the largest second-hand clothing market worldwide. The tragedy obliterated over 8,000 stalls, destroyed millions of clothing items, and directly impacted over 30,000 livelihoods, leaving the community grappling with immense challenges. Kantamanto Market recirculates approximately 25 million used garments monthly, reflecting its critical role in reuse and repurposing.
Yayra Agbofah, founder of The Revival, and The Or Foundation, an American-Ghanaian charity, stress the urgency for global fashion industry support in the cleanup and reconstruction efforts. While the foundation pledged $1 million for relief, significant contributions from major brands such as Shein, H&M, and Zara remain minimal or unclear. Agbofah calls for accountability, emphasizing the environmental repercussions of fast fashion and the responsibility of donors to ensure quality contributions.
Despite the destruction, the Kantamanto community demonstrates remarkable resilience, rebuilding the market while preserving its socioeconomic importance. However, the fire serves as a stark reminder of the global fashion industry's interconnectedness and the pressing need for collective accountability in addressing the environmental and social aftermath of excess consumption. Support from corporations, charities, and governments is pivotal as Kantamanto rises once again with unity and determination.
Cape Town's More Quarters Hotel Closes: New Cape Cadogan Suites Open
The More Family Collection has announced the closure of its More Quarters Neighbourhood Hotel in Cape Town, effective May 2, 2025, citing challenges in sustaining consistent success with its apartment-style accommodation model. Despite strong guest appreciation for its blend of luxury and neighborhood living, the offering did not attract sufficient long-term support. Robert More, the Custodian and CEO, acknowledged the emotional difficulty of this decision but emphasized the importance of refining their Cape Town offerings.
In response to the growing demand for the Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel, the company will introduce ten new suites, named the Stable Suites, situated in a historic building adjacent to the main hotel and accessible via a quiet cobbled street. These suites will include options for families, with features like interleading rooms and spacious two-bedroom accommodations. Additionally, the existing More Quarters Residence will be transformed into a second exclusive-use Cape Cadogan Residence.
All bookings for More Quarters after May 2, 2025, have been seamlessly transferred to the new Stable Suites, which are set to open on May 3, 2025. The enhancements reflect the company’s focus on combining heritage charm with elevated luxury and flexibility to meet guest needs effectively.
Kenya Eases African Travel: eTA Exemption for Many Countries
Kenya is making travel easier for African visitors by moving to exempt citizens of 15 African countries, including South Africa, Ghana, and Ethiopia, from the requirement to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This initiative, approved by Kenya's Cabinet, aims to enhance tourism and foster stronger regional connections. Alongside the exemption, the government plans to improve the eTA system to ensure faster processing, aiming for instant approvals in some cases and a maximum wait time of 72 hours. Enhanced security measures, like the Advanced Passenger Information/Passenger Name Record system, are also being introduced for smoother entry processes.
The ultimate vision includes extending eTA exemptions to all African nations, except Somalia and Libya, due to specific security concerns. Visitors from exempt countries will generally enjoy a two-month stay, while East African Community (EAC) citizens will retain their six-month entry privileges under existing agreements. These efforts align with Kenya's broader goal of fostering open skies policies and strengthening regional integration. By simplifying travel, Kenya aims to position itself as a key destination for African travelers while reinforcing its role in promoting economic cooperation across the continent.
