The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has launched a new initiative to simplify the process of acquiring fire safety permits and certifications. The initiative, known as the “Automated Fire Permit and Certification Management System,” was unveiled on Thursday, October 10, by the Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, at a ceremony in Accra.
This new system aims to enhance efficiency and accountability within the fire service by streamlining the process for businesses and individuals to obtain fire permits and certifications. By digitizing the process, the GNFS hopes to reduce delays and eliminate the difficulties applicants have faced under the previous manual system.
During his address, Mr. Quartey emphasized the importance of the system in promoting compliance with fire safety regulations, particularly Legislative Instruments 1724 and 2249, which mandate that both public and private premises secure fire permits and certificates.
“This system is expected to encourage those who may have previously hesitated to obtain their permits due to the complex nature of the old process,” the Minister said. He also noted that the initiative is part of broader efforts to strengthen fire prevention and safety across the country.
Mr. Quartey highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing the capacity of the GNFS by acquiring new equipment, which is expected to be delivered by the end of the year, to further improve the service’s ability to protect lives and property.
He called on fire service personnel to fully support the implementation of the Automated Fire Permit and Certification Management System and to embrace future innovations in line with global best practices.
Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Kofi Ahenkorah Marfo, lauded the GNFS for this important milestone, noting that it aligns with the Ministry’s business regulatory reforms. He pointed out that the reforms aim to leverage technology to improve the efficiency and quality of regulatory services, creating a more conducive business environment in Ghana.
As part of these reforms, the GNFS website has been upgraded, and over 300 officers have been trained nationwide to facilitate the automation process. Mr. Marfo urged the GNFS to collaborate with other permitting institutions to ensure the system’s success and sustainability.
Chief Fire Officer Julius A. Kuunuor described the initiative as a major step toward modernizing the GNFS’s services. He said the new system, developed in collaboration with the World Bank and the Ministry of Trade and Industry, will significantly reduce the time required to obtain fire permits and certificates, cutting it from 15 days to just five.
“This system will not only improve business turnaround times but also increase transparency, improve data management, and enhance revenue collection,” CFO Kuunuor explained. He added that the GNFS expects higher compliance rates as a result, reducing fire risks and promoting a safer environment.
CFO Kuunuor concluded by expressing confidence that the system would improve the ease of doing business in Ghana, contributing to the nation’s economic growth while ensuring greater adherence to fire safety regulations.
SOURCE: http://dew360.net
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