By Iddi Yire
Accra, March 18, GNA – President John Dramani Mahama has tasked Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO) Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sarpong, the Acting Chief Fire Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service to focus on fire disaster prevention through public education.
He reiterated that the Acting Chief Fire Officer’s leadership must focus on prevention through public education, emergency response readiness and strict enforcement of fire safety regulations.
The President gave the charge on Monday, when he officially announced her appointment as the Acting Chief Fire Officer and the appointment of Mr Samuel Basentale Amadu as the Acting Comptroller-General of the Ghana Immigration Service.
The confirmation of both Mrs Ntow-Sarpong and Mr Amadu require the approval of the Governing Councils of their respective institutions.
The event, which took place at the Presidency in Accra, also saw the swearing in of Deputy Director General of Prisons (DDGP) Patience Baffoe-Bonnie as Director-General of the Ghana Prison Service.
The President made the appointment of Mrs Baffoe-Bonnie in consultation with the Council of State.
President Mahama said as three Service Chiefs assume these high offices; he trusts that they would build on past successes and implement much needed reforms but also inspire those under their command to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
Touching fire outbreaks, the President said in recent years, there had been a concerning rise in fire incidents nationwide; adding that homes had been reduced to rubble, businesses had been devastated and essential infrastructure severely damaged.
He said families had lost their livelihoods and in some heartbreaking instances, lives had been tragically cut short.
He said these fires not only inflict significant personal and economic suffering but also place immense pressure on the nation’s emergency response systems.
“Last year alone, 6,436 fire incidents were recorded, underscoring the urgent need for a fire service that is well equipped, proactive and responsive. And therefore, the Acting Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sarpong,” the President stated.
He reiterated that fire audits must be effective and safety laws enforced without compromise.
“You have my full assurance that this administration will provide every necessary resource to ensure that the Ghana Fire Service is well equipped to protect lives and property,” the President said.
The President said as indicated in the 2025 budget, all essential projects would be completed, and officer welfare would remain a priority.
GNA
KOA