The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has not received a new fire tender in nearly 15 years, a concerning revelation that highlights the severe resource constraints affecting its operations.

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Speaking in an interview with Joy FM, the Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, Alex King Nartey, expressed deep frustration over the lack of investment in the Service’s essential equipment.

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"For almost 15 years now, we have not received any new fire tenders. According to international standards, fire tenders should be replaced every five years. We find ourselves in a country where things are difficult, so at the very least, we should receive new fire tenders every ten years," Nartey lamented.

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He stressed the operational challenges that arise from using outdated equipment, noting that continuous repairs drain the Service’s limited resources. "It is very difficult, yet people blame us. The management of the Fire Service spends a lot of money on maintenance. Just like an old woman when you fix one issue, another arises. So, we keep addressing problems as they come. We have been very committed," he added.

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Nartey also recalled a recent incident involving the Adenta fire tender, which had been out of commission for a long time. "I believe it was just a day or two after it was fixed that the late actor Mawuli Semevo's residence caught fire, and the fire service responded to that incident," he said.

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During his recent vetting, the then Minister-designate for Interior, Muntaka Mubarak, echoed similar concerns, labeling the Service’s equipment as outdated and inadequate. He disclosed that, aside from three hydraulic machines purchased since 2015, the government had failed to procure new fire tenders in nearly a decade.

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"We are not following through with the national strategy on fire prevention, which is part of our national security strategy," Muntaka stated.

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He highlighted the frustrations faced by firefighters, who often face public criticism for delays caused by failing equipment. "Sometimes, people react emotionally and criticize the firefighters, but the reality is that they are not happy with the equipment they have to work with," he noted.

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"These vehicles are weak, and after ten years, it’s not surprising that they break down. Imagine trying to start such a vehicle in the heat of an emergency, only for it to fail. It’s disheartening," Muntaka added.

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He assured that if confirmed as Interior Minister, he would prioritize equipping the GNFS as part of President John Dramani Mahama’s broader vision for national security.

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"By the grace of God, together with His Excellency, we will ensure that the Ghana National Fire Service is retooled to meet the needs of the country. This is clearly stated in our manifesto on page 186. They need the necessary tools to protect us when the need arises," he pledged.

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