The Minister for the Interior, Henry Quartey, has launched an initiative by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) aimed at simplifying the process for applicants seeking fire safety permits and certifications.

The event took place on Thursday, October 10 under the theme; 'Automated Fire Permit and Certification Management System.’

The initiative aims to streamline the acquisition of fire permits and certificates, enhancing the efficiency and accountability of the service. 

The online application process is designed to significantly reduce turnaround times and eliminate the inconveniences that applicants have historically faced when obtaining fire permits. 

Speaking at the ceremony in Accra, Mr Quartey stated that the innovation was expected to empower both businesses and individuals and promote compliance with Legislative Instruments 1724 and 2249, which require all public and private premises to obtain fire permits and certificates. 

"I hope that this system will serve as an incentive for all who have hesitated to fulfill their responsibilities in obtaining fire permits and certificates due to the cumbersome nature of the previous process," he said.

The Minister, highlighting the achievements of the GNFS, emphasised that this bold initiative would strengthen fire prevention and safety efforts. 

He assured that the government is acquiring new equipment, expected to arrive by the end of the year, to enhance the GNFS's capacity to save lives and protect property. 

Mr Quartey urged fire service personnel to fully embrace and support the implementation and sustainability of the Automated Fire Permit and Certification Management System, encouraging them to position themselves for further innovations aligned with global best practices. 

The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Kofi Ahenkorah Marfo, commended the GNFS, stating that the remarkable achievement was central to the business regulatory reforms programme of the Ministry. 

The reform aims to leverage technology to enhance the efficiency and quality of regulatory services in Ghana, creating a business environment that fosters inclusive and sustainable transformation. 

Mr Marfo stated that as part of the reform interventions, the GNFS website has been upgraded, IT equipment has been provided, and over 300 officers have been trained nationwide to facilitate the automation and decentralization process. 

He mentioned that a Memorandum of Understanding had been developed for the purpose and urged the Service to collaborate effectively with other permitting institutions to bring the system to fruition. 

Mr Marfo urged stakeholders and officers of the Service, particularly those in the Safety, IT, and Accounts Departments, to embrace the innovation and seize the opportunities it presents to build a robust economy that was both safe and conducive for all. 

The Chief Fire Officer (CFO), Julius A. Kuunuor, said that the initiative marked a significant milestone in the journey towards digitisation, innovation, and the modernisation of services within the GNFS. 

"As we strive to enhance the ease of doing business in Ghana, one major challenge businesses and individuals face is the bureaucracy and delays often associated with obtaining permits and certificates. 

"Recognising the significance of this issue, we have worked diligently to develop this Automated system, in partnership with the World Bank, Ministry of Trade and Industry to help reduce the time spent in acquiring fire permits and certificates from 15 to five days. 

“This will improve business turnaround times, increase transparency and accessibility of our services, and have a responsive relationship with the private sector, contributing to Ghana's overall economic growth," he stated. 

CFO Kuunuor said the system would reduce administrative burden, increase revenue mobilisation, enhance tracking and monitoring, as well as improve data management and security. 

“Fire safety is an essential component of any business's operational requirements, and we are confident that this system will enhance the ease of doing business in Ghana,” he added. 

CFO Kuunuor stated that the GNFS anticipates a higher compliance rate from businesses, institutions, and households, resulting in greater adherence to safety regulations.  

He noted that this would reduce the risk of fire outbreaks and contribute to a safer environment for Ghanaians.