President John Dramani Mahama has expressed concern over the increasing number of fire incidents across the country, highlighting their devastating impact on homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure.
He revealed that in the past year alone, 6,436 fire outbreaks were recorded, resulting in loss of livelihoods and, in some cases, tragic deaths.
Emphasizing the need for a well-equipped and responsive fire service, President Mahama called for urgent reforms to improve fire prevention and emergency response.
“Last year alone, 6,436 fire incidents were recorded. This underscores the urgent need for a fire service that is well-equipped, proactive, and responsive,” he stated.
While swearing in a new head for the Ghana Prisons Service, President Mahama also announced the appointment of new leadership for the Ghana National Fire Service and the Ghana Immigration Service.
He urged Acting Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong to focus on fire prevention through public education, emergency response readiness, and strict enforcement of fire safety regulations.
“As Chief Fire Officer, your leadership must prioritize prevention through public education, emergency preparedness, and strict enforcement of fire safety regulations,” he said.
The president also called on the acting fire chief officer to ensure effective fire audits and strict enforcement of safety laws.
“In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in fire incidents nationwide. Businesses have been reduced to rubble, essential infrastructure has been severely damaged, and families have lost their livelihoods. In some heartbreaking cases, lives have been tragically lost,” he noted.
President Mahama assured the Acting Chief Fire Officer that his government would provide all necessary resources to ensure the Ghana National Fire Service is well-equipped to protect lives and property.
