Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has announced a GHC100,000.00 insurance package for personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service who sustain permanent injuries in the line of duty.
In the case of death in the line of duty, family of the deceased officer will also receive GHC100,000.00.
Alhaji Muntaka Mubarak made the announcement when he addressed a passing out ceremony of 1,658 recruits on June 20.
The grand passing-out parade at the Fire Academy and Training School in Jamestown, Accra marks the successful completion of training by Course 55, comprising 1,658 recruits, made up of 843 men and 815 women who have now officially joined the frontlines of national emergency response.
The event was not only a celebration of discipline and transformation but also a testament to the Service’s commitment to strengthening its capacity to serve and protect Ghanaians nationwide.
As the Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, the Interior Minister commended the recruits for their resilience, dedication, and patriotism.
The Minister noted that the introduction of the new insurance package for all GNFS personnel, is aimed at boosting morale and ensuring financial security for officers injured or killed in the line of duty.
“Under the scheme:
• GH₵50,000.00 will be paid to firefighters sustaining non-permanent injuries in line of duty.
• GH₵100,000.00 will be awarded in cases of permanent disability in line of duty.
• GH₵100,000.00 will be given in the event of a firefighter’s death on active duty
• Even natural deaths while in service will attract a benefit of GH₵50,000.00,” he announced.
“This is just the beginning,” the Minister emphasized. “We are committed to improving welfare packages, logistics support, and working conditions for our gallant fire officers, whose sacrifices often go unnoticed.”
The Minister also used the occasion to highlight critical challenges facing the Service, including the persistent issue of prank calls to emergency lines. He warned that such misuse of resources delays real-life interventions and can cost lives.
He urged the public, especially the youth, to treat emergency numbers with seriousness and responsibility.
Additionally, he expressed concern over the 2.3% reduction in fire incidents recorded between first quarter (Q1) of 2024 and first quarter (Q1) of 2025 from 2,313 to 2,261 fires calling it a “small victory” but emphasizing that even one preventable fire remains too many.
He appealed to citizens to embrace preventive measures and collaborate with the GNFS and local authorities to ensure safer communities.
Under bright sunshine and amidst the sounds of marching Regimental Band and disciplined drills, families, dignitaries, senior officers, and invited guests gathered to witness the culmination of 28 weeks of rigorous training, which included theoretical instruction and hands-on practice in fire science, electrical safety, breathing apparatus operations, first aid, fire prevention, building construction, physical fitness, parade discipline, among others.
Four exceptional recruits were honored for their outstanding performance during the course:
• Recruit Fireman (RFM), Samuel Kenneth Ayibontey – Overall Best Recruit, excelling across all training modules.
• Recruit Fireman (RFM), Anamfo Gerrard Adombila – Best in Academics.
• Recruit Fireman (RFM), Emmanuel Addo Ahunu – Best in Foot Drill.
• Recruit Firewoman (RFW), Anita Awagah – Commandant’s Award for Best Conduct.
Presented by the Interior Minister himself, the awards celebrated not only individual excellence but also the broader spirit of professionalism and teamwork instilled throughout the training program.
“Your achievements are commendable, but your journey has just begun,” Hon. Muntaka told the recruits. “Continue to uphold the values of integrity, courage, and selflessness that define this noble profession.”
The graduation of Course 55 marks a significant milestone in the Service’s mission to modernize and expand its capabilities. These newly passed-out officers will be deployed across the country to reinforce frontline units, respond to emergencies, and educate communities on fire safety practices.
The Commandant of the Fire Academy reiterated the Service’s resolve to continue producing well-rounded, highly skilled, and service-oriented personnel capable of responding effectively to the evolving nature of fire hazards and disasters in Ghana.
As the final salute was rendered and the Regimental Band played the closing march, the ceremony concluded with a sense of pride, hope, and renewed purpose.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) stands stronger than ever, ready to meet the demands of a fast-changing world.
With enhanced training, improved welfare support, and growing public awareness, Ghana’s firefighting force is not only growing in number but also in strength, determination, and readiness to serve the nation.
