Obuasi Assembly Renews Call For Fire Station Amid Fire Tender Debate
Assembly Members of the Obuasi Municipal Assembly have renewed calls for the establishment of a dedicated fire station in the municipality following growing concerns over a fire tender donated by AngloGold Ashanti.
The demand was made during the Assembly’s ongoing meeting, where members sought clarification from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) regarding the ownership, condition and operational status of the fire engine, which has become the subject of public discussion in recent weeks.
Addressing the Assembly, Divisional Officer Grade III (DO III) Rhinda Amoasiwaa explained that the fire tender was donated specifically to serve the Obuasi Municipality. However, she disclosed that the vehicle is currently stationed at the Obuasi East Fire Station because Obuasi Municipality does not have its own fire station.
According to her, the fire engine remains operational despite minor mechanical defects that require attention.
She noted that establishing a fire station within the municipality would provide a permanent base for the fire tender while attracting additional personnel, logistics and firefighting equipment to strengthen emergency response services.
“The establishment of a fire station in the municipality will significantly strengthen fire safety and emergency response efforts,” she stated.
The issue gained public attention after comments allegedly made by the Obuasi East Municipal Chief Executive suggested that the donated fire engine was not fit for purpose, prompting Assembly Members to demand answers regarding its condition and ownership.
Following the clarification by the GNFS, members unanimously backed the call for a fire station in the municipality.
Historically, Obuasi Municipality operated a fire station at Boete, but the facility became part of the Obuasi East Municipality following the district’s creation in 2018, leaving Obuasi without a dedicated fire station.
Assembly Members revealed that two parcels of land had already been earmarked for the proposed project and urged Assembly management to expedite the necessary processes to secure approvals and resources for construction.
They expressed confidence that the project would enhance emergency preparedness and improve the protection of lives and property across the municipality.
Story By Ernest Kofi Offen
Municipal Information Officer
ISD Obuasi
