"We just wailed on the sea” — Kenneth Eshun recounts the Asemkow fire that destroyed his home

The peace of a young teacher trainee was shattered on Monday, October 6, when fire swept through the Asemkow community in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region, destroying homes and canoes.

For Kenneth Eshun, a Level 400 student of Komenda College of Education offering B.Ed in Primary Education, the tragedy is one he will never forget.

Speaking exclusively to WestCoast TV, Kenneth recounted how a day of fishing turned into a nightmare when news reached them that Asemkow was on fire — a result of a misunderstanding between some residents of Asemkow and Butre.

“We couldn’t go ashore — everywhere was burning. We just wailed on the sea and watched the smoke rise from our homes,” Kenneth recalled with a trembling voice.

He said they could not return home and had to divert to Ampatano for safety. When he finally returned, his family house had been completely burnt, leaving behind nothing but ashes.

 “I lost everything — my school documents, ECOWAS card, clothes, and personal belongings. It’s difficult, but I’m grateful to still be alive,” he said.

Police personnel have since been deployed to Asemkow to maintain peace and prevent further disturbances.

Authorities have called on residents of both communities to remain calm as investigations continue into the incident.

Despite losing nearly everything, Kenneth remains hopeful.

Story By: Jemima Andoh/WestCoast