Assembly Members of the Obuasi Municipal Assembly have renewed calls for the establishment of a dedicated fire station in the municipality following concerns and public discussions surrounding a fire engine donated by AngloGold Ashanti.
The issue came up during deliberations at the Assembly’s ongoing meeting, where members sought clarification on the ownership, condition and operational status of the fire tender, which has recently generated considerable public interest.
Addressing the Assembly, Divisional Officer Grade III (DO III) Rhinda Amoasiwaa of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) explained that the fire engine was donated specifically to serve the Obuasi Municipality. However, due to the absence of a fire station within the municipality, the vehicle is currently stationed at the Obuasi East Fire Station.
Her explanation prompted Assembly Members to intensify calls for the establishment of a municipal fire station to ensure that the donated equipment is effectively utilized for the benefit of residents.
DO III Amoasiwaa acknowledged that the fire engine has a few minor mechanical issues that require attention but stressed that the vehicle remains fit for operational use. She noted that the establishment of a fire station in the municipality would not only provide a permanent base for the fire engine but would also attract additional personnel, logistics and firefighting equipment to enhance emergency response services in the Municipality.
“The establishment of a fire station in the municipality will significantly strengthen fire safety and emergency response efforts,” she indicated.
The AngloGold Ashanti fire engine donation became a subject of public debate in recent weeks following comments by the Municipal Chief Executive for Obuasi East, who reportedly suggested that the vehicle was not fit for purpose. The development led some Assembly Members to file questions regarding the condition and ownership of the fire tender.
Following the clarification provided by the Ghana National Fire Service, the Assembly reached a consensus on the need to establish a fire station within the municipality.
Historically, the Obuasi Municipality had a fire station located at Boete. However, following the creation of the Obuasi East Municipality in 2018, the facility became part of the newly created district, leaving the Obuasi Municipality without a dedicated fire station.
Assembly Members disclosed that two parcels of land had previously been earmarked for the construction of a fire station and are now urging the Assembly’s management to expedite action towards securing the necessary approvals and resources for the project.
They expressed optimism that the establishment of a fire station would improve emergency preparedness, protect lives and property, and enhance public safety across the municipality.
Story by:
Ernest Kofi Offen
Municipal Information Officer
(ISD, Obuasi)