Interior Minister Alhaji Muntaka Mohammed Mubarak has launched a Health and Safety Fund to support members of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) who suffer severe injuries in the line of duty and provide educational support for the children of firefighters who lose their lives while serving the nation.
The launch was held in Accra as part of activities marking this year’s International Firefighters’ Day, celebrated under the theme “Appreciating Our Heroes: Say No to Firefighter Assault and Firefighting Truck Vandalism.”
Addressing the gathering, Alhaji Muntaka commended the GNFS for its commitment to public safety, noting that the fund is a critical step toward ensuring the welfare of personnel who risk their lives daily to protect lives and property.
“These brave men and women deserve not only our gratitude but our protection and support,” he stated.
The Minister highlighted the pressing challenges facing the Service, including outdated equipment and limited logistical resources.
He pledged the government’s commitment to retooling and modernizing the GNFS to enable it to perform more effectively.
Alhaji Muntaka also condemned the increasing incidents of assaults on firefighters and the vandalism of firefighting equipment, describing them as “unacceptable and deeply troubling.”
He called on civil society, religious leaders, and community organizations to join the campaign against such acts and advocate for the safety and dignity of emergency responders.
He further praised the Acting Chief Fire Officer, Ms. Daniella Ntow Sapong, for her exemplary leadership, and congratulated the award recipients honored at the event, acknowledging their dedication and service to the nation.
The Minister call to the public to support the newly established Health and Safety Fund, stating, “Let’s all commit to supporting the GNFS and the Health and Safety Fund. Our heroes deserve nothing less.”
Source : www.kumasimail.com
