GNFS Holds Grand Passing-Out Parade For Course 55: Over 1,600 New Recruits Ready To Serve Nation.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), today held a grand passing-out parade at the Fire Academy and Training School in Jamestown, Accra, marking 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.

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. 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.

MINISTER FOR THE INTERIOR ANNOUNCES NEW INSURANCE PACKAGE FOR FIREFIGHTERS IN GHANA

Honourable Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, Minister for the Interior, served as the Special Guest of Honour and Reviewing Officer, commending the recruits for their resilience, dedication, and patriotism. In his keynote address, he praised the GNFS for its ongoing efforts to improve service delivery, noting that the addition of these new recruits would significantly enhance the Service’s operational strength and national reach.

In a major policy announcement, the Minister revealed the introduction of a new insurance package for all GNFS personnel, 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.

“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.”

CALL FOR PUBLIC COOPERATION IN FIRE SAFETY

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.

OUTSTANDING RECRUITS RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE

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.”

A STEP FORWARD IN EMERGENCY RESPONSE CAPACITY

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.

LOOKING AHEAD

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.