By: Mohamed J. Bangura
The Government of Sierra Leone is strengthening the operational capacity of the Sierra Leone Fire Force through the procurement of new fire engines, construction of fire stations and specialized training for firefighters.
Speaking on Tuesday, 1 September 2026, at the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press conference at the Miatta Conference Centre in Freetown, Bintu Fatmata Kamara Esq. of the Sierra Leone Fire Force said the interventions are aimed at improving the institution’s ability to respond effectively to fire outbreaks and other emergencies across the country.
Kamara said the Sierra Leone Fire Force, established under the Fire Force Act of 1985, has faced longstanding challenges, particularly in relation to firefighting equipment and infrastructure. However, she noted that the situation is gradually improving through recent government interventions.
She disclosed that the government has procured four new fire engines for the Fire Force. In addition, Sierra Leone has received two fire engines donated by Spain, along with specialized training for local firefighters on how to operate and maintain the donated vehicles.
According to Kamara, the combination of modern equipment and specialised training will enhance the capacity of firefighters and improve emergency response nationwide.
She further disclosed that the government has constructed new fire stations in Magburaka, Port Loko, Mattru Jong, Pujehun and Kabala.
Kamara said the Fire Force now has stations in almost all district headquarters, although Falaba and Karene remain among the areas where the institution is still working to establish a full operational presence. She added that some existing stations are yet to be fully equipped.
She explained that the additional fire engines will enable the Fire Force to distribute vehicles to stations that currently lack adequate firefighting equipment, helping more stations become fully operational.
Kamara also highlighted the replacement of an ageing fire engine at the Makeni Fire Station. She said the old vehicle had been in service for approximately 15 years, adding that its replacement is expected to significantly improve emergency response in Makeni and surrounding communities.
The Fire Force is also working to address challenges related to access to water during firefighting operations. Kamara disclosed that construction of a borehole in Aberdeen, supported by Fawaz, is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed and operational by the end of September.
She said the borehole will provide an additional water source to support firefighting operations in the community.
Meanwhile, statistics presented by the Fire Force show that the institution responded to 375 incidents across Sierra Leone between 1 January and 31 August 2026.
The Western Area recorded the highest number of incidents, with 249 cases, followed by the Eastern Region with 58, the Southern Region with 38, and the Northern Region with 30.
Kamara said some of the major incidents recorded during the period occurred around ECOWAS Street, the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) and the Sierra Leone Library Board.
She emphasized that the Fire Force’s responsibilities extend beyond firefighting, noting that personnel also respond to road accidents, water-related incidents and other emergencies requiring rescue and emergency-response services.
Kamara said the ongoing investments demonstrate the government’s commitment to strengthening emergency services and improving the protection of lives and property across Sierra Leone.
With additional fire engines, newly constructed stations, improved water infrastructure and enhanced training, the Sierra Leone Fire Force is expected to expand its operational reach and provide faster and more effective emergency response to communities nationwide.