The Wenchi Municipal Assembly in collaboration with the Municipal Command of the Ghana National Fire Service has launched Anti-Bushfire Campaign to prevent and control fire outbreaks in the Municipality for the 2021/2022 season.
Speaking at the launch at Ayigbe during the Municipal Edition of the 37th National Farmers’ Day celebration, the Municipal Fire Commander DO III Eric Boateng cautioned the public against smoking in the farm, hunting with fire for animals, honey harvesting, bush burning for cultivation, cooking on the farm, amongst others as the causes of bushfire. He further explained that careless disposal of cigarettes, activities of palm wine tappers, charcoal burning, activities of herdsmen, chainsaw operators and arson are many more causes of the fires being recorded. DO III Boateng, however, assured of the support and commitment of his outfit to curb the occurrence of bushfires by enforcing the law to help protect farm lands and other investments of farmers. He underscored the devastating and depleting effects of fires such as loss of lives, farms, properties amongst others, hence called for cooperation and stakeholder engagements with the Assembly, Traditional Authorities, Forestry Commission, Police, Military to save and protect the environment.
Addressing a durbar of chiefs, farmers, stakeholders and people at the event, the Municipal Chief Executive Alexander Obour Damoah pledged the Assembly’s continous support in the fight against fire domestic and burefire outbreaks. The Chief Executive charged the Fire Service, Fire Volunteers and all stakeholders to help save lives and properties. He advised farmers to be vigilant and take extra precautions in their farming activities.
The Assembly supported Fire Volunteers with some logistics such as 40 wellington boots, 60 cutlasses, 60 tourchlights, to help prevent and control fire outbreaks in the communities.
There was drama display on Anti-Bushfire Campaign by Fire Volunteers Squad to demonstrate their capacity and readiness to fight fire outbreaks to save and protect lives and properties and also safeguard the environment.
The Fire Volunteer Squad appealed for motivation and more logistics to enable them carry out their duties.
Source: Information Services Department (ISD/WMA)
By: Stanick Sofel Amuzu Kpodo