By Bubacarr Gaye
The Minister of the Interior Honourable Mr. Abdoulie Sanyang has revealed that his ministry plans to establish a dedicated Fire Inspection Unit within The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS). This, he said is inspired by the serious capacity gaps within the department, particularly in fire prevention and building safety inspections.
Minister Sanyang made this disclosure last week, when he received Simon Shilton, Chief Fire Officer, Avon Fire and Rescue Service, United Kingdom, at the Minister’s complex in Kotu.
The Avon Fire and Rescue Service and The Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) have enjoyed a long-standing relationship spanning 34 years. The meeting afforded the Gambian officials and their UK counterparts the opportunity to reinforce the historical partnership.
On the proposed unit, the Minister said it would be responsible for conducting inspections of buildings under construction to ensure accessibility for firefighting in the event of an emergency.
In addition to enhancing fire safety standards nationwide, Hon Sanyang explained that the initiative could serve as a revenue-generating mechanism, as property developers and construction firms would be required to pay for inspection services.
