Human Interventions Crucial in Preventing Human-Induced Bushfires: Minister for the Interior.

Accra: Mr. Henry Quartey, Minister for the Interior, has called for human interventions to avert bushfires caused by human activities. Speaking at the National Launch of the 2024/2025 Bushfire Prevention Campaign organized by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in Accra, Quartey emphasized the potential of reversing harmful actions to prevent such fires.According to Ghana News Agency, the campaign, themed 'Effective Bushfire Prevention: Stakeholders' Role in Ensuring a Greener Tomorrow,' aims to raise awareness about the causes and impacts of bushfires and strategies for prevention. As part of the event, Quartey inaugurated a Wildfire Rapid Intervention Vehicle donated by Fire Aid and International Development, UK, along with 19 pick-up vehicles and four Command vehicles provided by the Government.Quartey highlighted the significance of the rapid intervention vehicle, designed specifically for Ghana's needs, as the latest in a series of donations to the GNFS, following similar contributions in 2022 and 2023. He noted that the vehicle would enhance efforts to combat bushfires and protect farmlands and vegetation. The Minister also expressed openness to partnerships with UK Aid and philanthropists who support Ghana's initiatives.The GNFS has worked diligently over the years to safeguard forests and farmlands by responding to bushfire incidents and intensifying public education through various media. Quartey urged citizens to heed the safety messages disseminated by the Fire Service to prevent bushfires and lauded the acquisition of Fire Service TV, which broadcasts fire safety data and educational content.Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Julius A. Kuunuor acknowledged the benefits gained from training and equipment donations through partnerships with organizations such as the World Rescue Organisation, UK Rescue Organisation, and Fire Aid and International Development. Recent donations included firefighting equipment valued at £197,609 in 2022, followed by items worth £16,480 in 2023, with more equipment worth £1 13,000 pending clearance at Tema Port.CFO Kuunuor emphasized that preventing bushfires not only protects lives and property but also preserves ecosystems, reduces carbon emissions, and secures resources for future generations. He urged citizens to act with purpose and urgency, recognizing their contributions as investments in a greener, safer Ghana.The CFO noted that about 99 percent of bushfires are human-induced, stemming from activities such as hunting, festivals, arson, and smoking. The remaining one percent results from natural causes like lightning and spontaneous combustion. He stressed that bushfires undermine national development efforts and called for innovative strategies and public education programs to prevent and control outbreaks.Representing the Greater Accra Regional Minister, Mr. Ebenezer Nartey, former Member of Parliament for Ablekuma Central, reiterated that bushfire prevention is a collective responsibility. He called for intensified education and resources for fire volunteers, urg ing all Ghanaians to unite in this mission and make a significant impact.