Relief Support for Kantamanto Upcyclers Association

Relief Support for Kantamanto Upcyclers Association

On January 1, 2025, a devastating fire swept through Kantamanto Market in Accra, Ghana, destroying countless businesses, goods, and livelihoods. As one of the largest second-hand clothing markets in the world, Kantamanto was not just a place of trade but a leader in sustainability, supporting thousands of traders, upcyclers, and creatives.

Upcycle It Ghana, a non profit organisiation in partnership with the Kantamanto Upcyclers Association—a collective of 86 sustainable businesses and affiliates based in Kantamanto—is now urgently seeking your support to rebuild and recover.

My Connection to Kantamanto

My name is Zakiya Shivers, and I had the honor of working with The Upcyclers Association and other community-led organizations to launch the Vintage Up Ghana Festival on January 4, 2025, in Accra. This event showcased the incredible talent and ingenuity of vintage, sustainable, and upcycled businesses in Ghana.

Tragically, just days before the festival, this community suffered unimaginable losses as the fire destroyed several businesses owned by members of The Upcyclers Association. Despite the fire and all they lost, they remained committed to their mission: saving the planet from waste and redefining sustainability. Their resilience inspires me, and I’m now raising emergency funds to support them in this critical time. One hundred percent of these funds will go directly to the team.

Why Kantamanto Matters

Kantamanto Market is home to 30,000 traders, processing over 7 million items of second-hand clothing weekly, much of which comes from Western countries. Up to 40% of imported clothing bales end up as waste, polluting the environment. So, these traders work tirelessly to resell, recycle, and upcycle clothing, turning waste into beauty and utility. The fire has compounded this crisis, leaving many traders without the resources to rebuild.

How Your Donations Will Help

The funds raised will go directly to:

Please donate generously to provide immediate relief and to help rebuild this vital community.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity!

Zakiya Shivers