The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has defended its policy of charging for official fire investigation reports, stating that the processing fee serves as a critical revenue stream to support its operations and strengthen national fire safety efforts.
According to ADO I Derrick Elorm Adzokpa of the GNFS Public Relations Department, while the Service routinely conducts investigations into fire outbreaks, particularly in public facilities and markets, the official reports are only issued upon formal request and payment of a nominal fee.
Speaking on Channel One TV’s Breakfast Daily programme on Friday, May 9, Mr. Adzokpa explained that the fee — which is under GHS 150 — is not profit-oriented but is intended to help the GNFS augment limited government resources.
“We do the investigations as part of our duty, but once a stakeholder, market leader, or facility manager formally requests the full report, a small fee is charged. It’s a way to generate internal funds to continue serving the public better,” he stated.
Read Also: Mahama commissions Deloitte to audit National Cathedral project, targets broader accountability
The clarification comes at a time of growing public concern over recurrent fires in major markets and business centers across the country. The GNFS maintains that access to these reports plays a vital role in improving fire prevention strategies and mitigating future disasters.
“When we finalise our investigations, we inform the relevant authorities, such as market leaders, but to receive the full written report, a request must be made, and the corresponding fee paid,” Adzokpa noted.
He added that the policy is designed to ensure the sustainability of the Service’s operations, enabling it to continue delivering essential emergency response and public education services.
The GNFS is urging the public to view the processing fee as a shared investment in national safety rather than a financial burden, highlighting that improved understanding of fire causes is key to saving lives and property.
