The Minister for the Interior, Hon. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has reiterated the government’s firm commitment to retooling the Ghana National Fire Service as a key priority during a working tour of the Fire Service’s regional headquarters in Tamale.
Hon. Muntaka explained that the objective of the retooling agenda forms part of a broader government strategy to enhance national emergency response mechanisms and security readiness.
“Retooling the fire service is a top priority for Government to improve the working conditions and operational capacity of the Service to ensure it is well-equipped to serve the nation effectively”
Ministry Of The Interior
According to the Minister, improving logistics and modernising the Service was essential to the effective delivery of firefighting, and strengthening the Service’s rescue operations to safeguard lives and property across Ghana.
“The Minister condemned the recent attacks on fire service personnel. He revealed ongoing discussions with the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to provide escorts for officers, ensuring their safety while on duty”
Ministry of the Interior
The Minister noted that such incidents undermine morale and disrupt emergency responses, emphasizing that the safety of the fire officers remains a top priority.
He further assured that works were being undertaken with the Ghana Police Service to ensure operational escorts are available where necessary to prevent further incidents on critical assignments.
“Additionally, he disclosed that talks are underway with the National Insurance Commission to secure insurance coverage for fire service officers, offering them greater protection and support”
Ministry of the Interior
Talks with the NIC are aimed at offering comprehensive and reliable insurance to cover officers who risk their lives daily in the line of duty. This measure will provide both physical and financial protection to frontline staff across the country.
Hon. Muntaka also addressed concerns regarding the illegal sale and encroachment of lands allocated to security services. He warned the public to desist from acquiring or trading in such lands and stressed that legal boundaries must be respected to allow future infrastructure expansion.
The Minister’s caution comes amid growing reports of land disputes involving facilities designated for public protection services.
During the tour, the Regional Commander of the Ghana National Fire Service, ACFO II Franklin Masiku, highlighted several challenges affecting operations in the Northern Region. He noted that logistical difficulties, limited resources, and inadequate office accommodation continue to undermine operational efficiency.
According to the Ministry, ACFO II Masiku stated that while personnel were committed to their duties, their capacity was stretched by the lack of necessary equipment. He welcomed the Minister’s visit and expressed optimism about the government’s efforts to support the Service.
Police and Prisons Service Engagements
Earlier in his visit to the Northern Region, Hon. Muntaka toured the Regional Police Headquarters and the Tamale Central Prison.
“The Minister’s visit aimed to boost the morale of security personnel and understand the challenges faced by inmates in the region”
Ministry of the Interior
At the Police Headquarters, he commended officers for their dedication to peacekeeping and reiterated the government’s intent to continue investing in training, logistics, and community engagement strategies.
At Tamale Central Prison, Hon. Muntaka interacted with inmates and correctional officers, focusing on agricultural and industrial programmes that can support inmate rehabilitation. He discussed initiatives intended to improve inmate nutrition, skills development, and post-incarceration opportunities.
The Ministry noted that overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure remained challenges for the Ghana Prisons Service, but assured that the government was committed to a correctional system rooted in humane treatment and sustainable reform.
In sum, the Interior Minister’s tour demonstrated a practical approach to strengthening security institutions, enhancing operational capacity, and promoting reforms across the criminal justice chain.
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