Automated fire safety compliance system unveiled by Ghana Ministry of Interior

by Breaking NewsSafety

Ghana introduces digital fire safety compliance platform

The Automated Fire Safety Compliance System (AFCAS) has been launched in Accra as a digital platform designed to modernise fire safety compliance across Ghana.

The Ministry of the Interior, Ghana, confirmed that the system aims to replace manual and fragmented compliance processes with a standardised digital framework.

Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, Minister for the Interior, said: “Fire safety is a national necessity that underpins the safety of citizens, protection of lives and properties and investor confidence.

“AFCAS represents a bold transition from manual, fragmented processes to a digital, standardized, and technology-driven fire safety compliance regime.”

The platform is expected to enable the Ghana National Fire Service to engage more directly with the public and improve inspection and compliance workflows.

It is intended to streamline inspection procedures, reduce turnaround times and improve service delivery across homes, businesses and public institutions.

The system also aligns with government efforts to use technology to support regulatory processes and investment security.

AFCAS expected to improve fire service operations and public engagement

The Ministry of the Interior, Ghana, stated that AFCAS will support fire service operations, compliance management and engagement with stakeholders nationwide.

Hon. Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, Chief Fire Officer, said: “Before AFCAS, things were done manually, which had its own challenges.

“The benefits will be far-reaching.”

Sarpong also said the system would improve fire service operations, revenue generation and interactions with clients.

She confirmed that AFCAS will be rolled out across the country following its launch.

The launch event brought together representatives from the Ghana National Fire Service, government agencies and the private sector.

Ghana fire service land sale warning issued by interior minister

by Featured NewsSafety

Government condemns encroachment on Ghana fire service land

Minister for the Interior Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak has publicly warned against the illegal sale and purchase of lands allocated to Ghana’s security services, including the Ghana National Fire Service.

According to Modern Ghana, the Minister issued the warning during a visit to the regional headquarters of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in Tamale, where he urged the public and organisations to respect legal boundaries and ownership of these lands.

The Minister said the government intends to preserve the land for security purposes and emphasised that unauthorised sales could undermine national safety efforts.

Ghanaian fire service retooling declared a government priority

The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the Ghana National Fire Service, stating that upgrading its equipment and resources remains a top priority.

He explained that efforts are underway to enhance working conditions and operational capacity to support the Service in meeting its responsibilities.

He added that these improvements would help ensure the GNFS is equipped to manage the growing demands placed on its personnel.

Minister addresses attacks on fire service officers

Mohammed-Mubarak condemned recent attacks on fire service personnel and disclosed that discussions are ongoing with the Inspector General of Police to provide officer escorts during emergency operations.

The Minister said these measures aim to ensure the safety of responders during deployments.

He stated that such incidents undermine the morale and effectiveness of fire service staff and must be addressed through both policy and enforcement.

Insurance packages planned for service personnel

The Minister also announced that talks are underway with the National Insurance Commission to develop insurance packages tailored for fire service personnel.

He explained that this would enhance the overall welfare of officers and provide better protection in the event of injury or loss.

He indicated that this initiative forms part of broader government efforts to improve conditions for frontline workers.

Regional commander outlines service challenges

During the same visit, Regional Commander ACFO II Franklin Masiku presented key challenges facing the Tamale region, including a shortage of office space, inadequate logistics, and insufficient resources.

He acknowledged the Minister’s visit as a positive step and voiced optimism about the government’s commitment to resolving these constraints.

Masiku said improvements in these areas would help the Service deliver its mandate to protect lives and property across Ghana.

Ghana fire service land sale warning issued by interior minister: Summary

Minister for the Interior Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak warned against the sale and purchase of security service lands in Ghana.

The statement was made during a visit to the Ghana National Fire Service headquarters in Tamale.

The Minister called on individuals and organisations to respect legal ownership of GNFS land.

He stated that preserving this land was essential for national security.

He reaffirmed that retooling the Fire Service is a government priority.

He highlighted plans to improve working conditions and increase operational resources.

He condemned attacks on fire personnel during deployments.

He said discussions are underway with the IGP to provide police escorts for GNFS officers.

He also confirmed ongoing talks with the National Insurance Commission for officer insurance.

GNFS Regional Commander ACFO II Franklin Masiku outlined current challenges in Tamale.

Masiku cited a lack of accommodation, equipment, and logistical support.

He welcomed the Minister’s engagement and voiced hope for solutions.

Ghana launches automated fire permit system for national fire service

by Featured NewsSafety

Ghana transitions to a digital fire permit system

As reported by Ghana’s Ministry of the Interior, the Minister for the Interior, Hon. Henry Quartey, has launched an Automated Fire Permit and Certification Management System for the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

The new platform replaces the previously used manual system, allowing for a streamlined digital process.

The initiative aims to make the process of obtaining fire permits and certificates more efficient, reducing delays and improving access to necessary documents.

The transition to a digital system is expected to enhance fire safety compliance across the country, and Hon. Quartey emphasised the importance of Ghana adapting to global technological advancements.

He said: “In a rapidly advancing digital world, Ghana can no longer afford lengthy bureaucratic processes that frustrate rather than facilitate.”

Minister calls for support from fire officers

During the launch, Hon. Henry Quartey called on fire officers to support the implementation of the new system.

He noted that the sustainability of this digital platform depends on the collaboration and dedication of the GNFS workforce.

The Minister expressed his appreciation for the efforts made by the Chief Fire Officer and his team in advancing fire safety and protection measures across Ghana.

Hon. Quartey also thanked the Ministry of Trade and Industry and other key stakeholders for their contributions, acknowledging their vital role in supporting the Ghana National Fire Service’s development and modernisation efforts.

Trade minister highlights fire safety’s role in economic growth

A speech delivered on behalf of the Minister for Trade and Industry, Hon. K. T. Hammond, underscored the importance of fire safety in supporting Ghana’s economic progress.

He highlighted how safeguarding industries from fire hazards is essential for protecting investments and maintaining economic stability.

“Protecting industries from fire hazards, investments, and uninterrupted economic activities is vital,” said Hon. Hammond.

The speech reinforced the need for a strong fire safety framework to ensure business continuity and foster a conducive environment for industrial growth.

GNFS chief highlights digital progress

The Chief Fire Officer, Julius Kuunuor, described the introduction of the Automated Fire Permit and Certification Management System as a key milestone in the digitisation of GNFS operations.

He expressed gratitude to the various stakeholders for their continued support in advancing fire safety measures in the country.

Kuunuor noted that the new system reflects Ghana’s ongoing commitment to prioritising fire safety and fostering a more efficient and secure business environment.

The system is expected to reduce bureaucratic hurdles and improve the overall speed and transparency of fire safety certification processes.

Ghana launches new digital fire permit management system: Summary

Ghana’s Ministry of the Interior has launched an Automated Fire Permit and Certification Management System for the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

The system replaces the previous manual process, streamlining the acquisition of fire permits and certificates.

Minister for the Interior, Hon. Henry Quartey, stressed the importance of adopting digital solutions to improve efficiency and reduce delays.

He also urged fire officers to support the system’s implementation.

Chief Fire Officer Julius Kuunuor called it a significant step in GNFS’s digitisation journey.

The Minister for Trade and Industry, Hon. K. T. Hammond, highlighted the importance of fire safety in protecting businesses and promoting economic growth.

Recruits graduate from Accra Fire Academy and Training School

by Featured NewsTraining

The latest round of recruits have graduated from the Fire Academy and Training School in Accra, Ghana, after six weeks of intensive training on firefighting.

The 525 recruits, comprised 278 males and 247 females, who went through the various stages of the process, including the pre-recruitment medical examination and the selection processes.

Candidates were exposed to the rudiments of firefighting required to manage and prevent undesired fires, and were provided with the required firefighting knowledge and skills through a hands-on approach to develop their operational competence.

The training was designed to strengthen their physical fitness and mental alertness through daily physical training and foot drills. The reviewing officer for the passing out ceremony was the Minister for the Interior, Ambrose Dery.

The Overall Best Recruit was awarded to Fafali Anang who also won the Best in Academics.

Emmanuel Logah won the Best in Foot Drills, while Mawuse Jemima Daliesor won the Commandant Award.

Mr Dery commended the recruits for their discipline and comportment during the period of training. He said: “Remember to carry your profession with pride, and represent the service and by extension Ghana as a true firefighter, ready to save your country from life-threatening situations whenever you are called to duty.”

The minister also commended the efforts of the leadership of the service for the innovative methods of educating the public on the dangers of fire.