Accra: Mr. Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, the Minister of the Interior, has announced a new insurance package designed to boost morale and provide security for personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS). Firefighters who suffer non-permanent injuries while on duty will receive GH? 50,000.00, while those sustaining permanent injuries will be entitled to GH? 100,000.00. In the unfortunate event of an officer's death on duty, the same amount will be paid. Additionally, natural deaths while in service will attract a benefit of GH? 50,000.00.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister made this announcement during the Passing-Out Ceremony of Course 55 of the GNFS in Accra. He emphasized that this initiative marks the beginning of efforts to enhance firefighters' welfare and pledged further support in terms of logistics and resources. Mr. Muntaka also addressed the rate of fire outbreaks in the country, revealing that the GNFS recorded 2,261 fire incidents in the first quarter of 2025, a slight decrease from the 2,313 incidents reported in the same period last year. While this represents a 2.3 percent reduction, he stressed the need for stronger public commitment to fire prevention.
The Minister raised concerns over the increasing number of prank calls to the Fire Service's emergency lines, highlighting the waste of time and resources, delays in real emergencies, and potential risk to lives. He urged the public, especially the youth, to treat emergency numbers with seriousness and responsibility.
A total of 1,658 recruits from Course 55 completed their training and participated in the Passing-Out Ceremony. Mr. Muntaka commended their resilience and discipline, urging them to serve the nation with integrity and professionalism. The cohort, consisting of 843 men and 815 women, underwent eight months of rigorous training that included classroom subjects and practical drills. Their training covered fire science, electricity, breathing apparatus operations, first aid, fire prevention, building construction, physical fitness, and parade drills, all designed to prepare them for the real-life challenges of firefighting and emergency response.
During the ceremony, the recruits demonstrated their skills and discipline in a vibrant parade, impressing dignitaries and guests. Four outstanding recruits were honored for their exceptional performance. Recruit Fireman (RFM) Samuel Kenneth Ayibontey was named the Overall Best Recruit for excelling in both theory and practice, and RFM Anamfo Adombila earned the Best in Academics award. RFM Emmanuel Addo Ahunu received the Best in Foot Drill award, while RFW Anita Awaga was recognized for Best Conduct, showcasing her discipline and dedication throughout the course.
