Interior Minister Urges Fire Officers to Embrace Digital Fire Safety Compliance System
The Minister for the Interior, Mr. Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has called on officers of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to fully embrace and support the implementation of the Automated Fire Safety Compliance System (AFCAS).
He described digitalisation as important to improving fire safety regulation and service delivery in the country.
Speaking at a workshop for members of the Strategic Management Committee and Regional Fire Commanders, the Minister said the successful implementation of AFCAS would strengthen the operational efficiency of the Service while enhancing the welfare of its personnel.
AFCAS, which was launched in February, replaces the Service’s manual and fragmented fire safety processes with a fully digital platform for real-time compliance tracking, inspection coordination and certification. The system is expected to enable the GNFS to identify high-risk facilities early, reduce turnaround times and introduce full digital traceability to inspections and approvals.
Mr. Mohammed-Mubarak acknowledged that introducing any new system comes with initial challenges but expressed confidence that continuous improvement and the commitment of personnel would ensure its success.
“Every new system comes with challenges, but continuous shaping will shape the system. With your support and commitment, AFCAS will work as expected to improve the work of the Service, and that will also benefit you, the officers,” he stated.
The Minister emphasised that digitalisation remains the way forward if the Service is to enhance efficiency and respond more effectively to emerging challenges.
According to him, the digital platform will simplify operations and resolve issues much faster than the traditional manual processes, ultimately improving the delivery of fire safety services across the country.
Touching on the welfare of personnel, Mr. Mohammed-Mubarak stressed that the success of AFCAS is closely linked to improving the working conditions of officers.
“The well-being of officers remains very key and directly tied to AFCAS success. When you support AFCAS and it succeeds, it will improve your work and welfare,” he said.
The Minister encouraged the Service to explore innovative ways of generating additional revenue to support its operations. He explained that AFCAS would introduce a reliable revenue stream capable of reducing the Service’s dependence on government subventions and enhancing its financial sustainability.
The Chief Fire Officer, Madam Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, also appealed to officers to fully support the implementation of the new system, noting that its success depends on their commitment and active participation.
She said the nationwide rollout of AFCAS would significantly improve the operations of the Ghana National Fire Service, simplify public access to fire safety services, enhance inspection coordination and enable real-time monitoring of compliance.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
