By Samira Larbie
Accra, June 14, GNA – The Fire Service Ladies Association (FISLA) has launched its 30th-anniversary celebrations, marking three decades of empowering female firefighters and promoting gender equality.
Established in August 1995, FISLA is a registered non-governmental organisation that supports women in the Ghana National Fire Service through mentorship, leadership training, and community outreach.
It aims to advocate gender equality and provide the necessary support for female firefighters to excel in their careers.
As part of the anniversary, FISLA has unveiled an anniversary Lacoste and outlined several activities, including a fire safety sensitisation float, markets outreach, donation, and a national durbar to climax the celebration.
It is on the themed: “Spark to Flames: Tracing the Growth and Progress of Fire Service Ladies Over the Past Thirty (30) Years. Very timely and appropriate.”
Mrs Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sarpong, the Acting Chief Fire Officer (CFO), commended the pivotal role the association had played in enhancing gender inclusivity within the Service.
She paid glowing tribute to all past and present executives of FISLA, saying; “Your hard work and dedication have sustained this noble association.”
The CFO urged members to renew their commitment and embrace the aspirations of the association.
“Let us challenge ourselves to aim higher, to guide the next generation, to innovate in our roles, and to serve our country with excellence and purpose,” she added.
Ms Shamima Muslim, representing the office of the Vice President, commended FISLA for achieving the milestone.
She reiterated the pledges made by President Mahama in the 2024 manifesto of strategic investments and retooling of the Ghana National Fire Service.
Ms Muslim recounted several initiatives the Government had embarked on to give hope to women.
“As we reflect on the theme, spark to flames, it’s very poignant, tracing the growth of the progress of fire service ladies over the past 30 years,” she said.
“We are called not only to remember but to rededicate ourselves to recommit to this Ghana we want to build together.”
“Where we all matter, our stories matter, where our voices should and must be heard, where our images will find representation around decision-making tables. This is Ghana. His Excellency invites all of you to help build with him.”
Mrs Adelaide Annor Kumi, the Former Chief Director, Ministry of the Interior, commended the CFO for her legacy as the first female Chief Fire Officer and for opening doors for other women in the Service.
She encouraged the leadership of FISLA to sustain the values that had kept the Association growing, which were unity, discipline, mentorship, and service, and also embrace new strategies while investing in digital skills.
“Advocate policy support. Deepen partnerships with civil society, international organisations and academia. And above all, continue to raise the visibility of the exceptional women within your ranks,” she added.
Mrs Kumi advised the young officers and future leaders to see the anniversary as a living testimony of the achievements of the association and build on it.
“Learn from your women forebearers who have led the way and built a foundation for you to continue to build upon.”
“Let their stories ignite your passion. You have a responsibility not only to serve but to lead, not only to follow rules but to shape them,” she added.
Assistant Chief Fire Office I, Mrs. Doris Lamptey, FISLA President, called for the continuous push for gender-sensitive policies that reflected the reality of women in service to address their challenges and build on their successes.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe