GNFS Holds Mental Health Seminar for Officers and Recruits

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has held a comprehensive mental health awareness seminar at the Fire Academy and Training School (FATS) in James Town, Accra, urging personnel to treat their psychological wellbeing with the same urgency as their physical safety. Centered on the theme “Resolving Workplace Conflicts Early: Strengthening Mental Health for Higher Productivity,” the event gathered fire officers and newly inducted recruits to address the heavy emotional toll associated with emergency response work.

​Led by renowned expert Rev. Dr. Albright Banibensu, the interactive session focused on actionable strategies for managing workplace conflicts, positive psychology, and understanding individual personality traits. Participants were encouraged to examine how personal differences impact team dynamics and how fostering healthy interpersonal relationships directly builds a more resilient working environment.

​Addressing the gathering, the Chief Fire Officer, Daniela Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, emphasized that emergency responders face unique operational pressures including trauma, anxiety, and severe emotional distress arising from their daily exposure to life-threatening situations. She urged personnel to remain vigilant regarding subtle changes in their mental state, noting that early recognition and intervention are critical to preventing psychological strain from escalating.

​By opening up vital conversations on mental health and stress management, the GNFS continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to holistic officer care. For an organization whose members routinely confront fires, severe road traffic accidents, and complex disasters, embedding mental health support into routine training is proving essential to sustaining long-term productivity and safeguarding the workforce.

@VoltaToday