Mahama Allocates GHS1B to Equip Police, Fire & Security Agencies
President John Dramani Mahama has announced a significant GHS1 billion budget allocation dedicated to retooling Ghana’s security agencies, particularly the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana National Fire Service. This commitment was made following a high-level National Security Council meeting where President Mahama highlighted the urgent operational constraints confronting these essential services. Emphasizing the critical state of the Fire Service, he lamented the lack of functional equipment and outdated fire tenders—some over a decade old—compromising their ability to respond promptly to emergencies. “I feel their pain when they’re blamed for delayed responses,” the President stated, explaining that the issue stems from long-term neglect in equipment upgrades. He revealed that he had convinced the finance minister to approve this major budget, marking a turning point for frontline emergency services.
Speaking during a special address to security personnel on Friday, June 20, President Mahama also drew attention to the high-risk work conditions faced by police officers, who continue to confront armed criminals with insufficient logistical support. “We can't send officers to face robbers in poorly equipped vehicles,” he asserted. In a separate development, senior officers from the eleven agencies under the Ministry of the Interior have collectively contributed GHS1 million to the Ghana Medical Trust Fund—also referred to as the Mahama Cares Fund—which supports citizens battling chronic illnesses. Donating agencies include key institutions such as the Police, Immigration, Fire, Prisons, NADMO, NACOC, NIA, and others, demonstrating a strong sense of unity and social responsibility across Ghana's internal security architecture.
