The Deputy Chief of Staff in charge of Administration, Nana Oye Bampoe Addo, has urged personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to adapt to evolving demands in the profession, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI), to improve fire prevention, response and administrative work.

She said the adoption of AI could support fire risk assessment, help to predict fire-prone areas, strengthen community awareness campaigns and improve administrative efficiency within the service.

“There is a new creature in town. Very popular and very pervasive. It enters every way of life, and challenges our efficiencies and capacities. Its name is AI.

“It can help you (to) document your history, organise your membership data and communicate your work to a wider audience,” she said.

She said this  in Accra last Thursday at the 30th anniversary celebration of the Ghana National Fire Service Ladies Association (FISLA).

The event, which was on the theme: “From Sparks to Flames”, brought together members of FISLA from across the country, senior officers of the service, ministers of state and other stakeholders.

The occasion also featured performances from the Fire Service Band and highlife musician Akosua Agyapong.

Caution

The Deputy Chief of Staff cautioned that the adoption of such technology must be done with care, stressing the need to protect data and ensure that digital tools supported the service’s core mandate.

“Embrace it thoughtfully, train your members in it, and do not let it pass you by. However, also know its limits, protect your data and ensure it serves your mission and not the other way around,” she added.

Ms Bampoe Addo further highlighted the role of unity in sustaining the association, and urged the members to maintain a strong collective voice in promoting the advancement of women within the service.

“Unity is the oxygen that has fuelled this flame for 30 years,” she said, urging members to sustain a strong and coordinated voice in advancing the interests of women in the service.

Professional development

The Chief Fire Officer (CFO), Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, encouraged members of the association to pursue continuous professional development and prepare for leadership roles.

She urged them, especially the younger generation, to build their capacity and remain focused on the core mandate of the service.

“I encourage you to continue striving for excellence, to uphold the highest standards of professional development and remain committed to the core mandate of the service, saving lives and property,” she said.

CFO Sarpong stressed that although the pioneers of the association had laid a strong foundation, the responsibility to sustain and advance the gains now rested on current and future members.

“The path has been paved now, but the journey continues. Step forward with confidence, equip yourselves with knowledge and be ready to lead and strengthen,” she said.

She described the anniversary as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment, urging members to deepen unity within the ranks and to contribute to building a stronger institution.

The CFO noted that women in the service continued to play key roles across operational and administrative functions, including frontline firefighting, rescue missions, fire safety enforcement, logistics and public education.

She said their growing presence and performance highlighted the need for sustained investment in training, welfare and leadership development to ensure equal opportunity for all personnel.

The Director-General of the Ghana Prisons Service, Patience Baffoe-Bonnie, also commended the association for its resilience over the past three decades, and urged members to adopt a mindset focused on growth and self-improvement.

She encouraged women in the service to reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, and to work towards personal and professional advancement.