At least 116 fire-fighters recruits last Thursday passed out at a colourful ceremony held at the Bakau Fire Station and Training Wing.

Speaking at the ceremony, Ousman Sonko, Secretary of State for Interior, described the day as an exciting occasion in the history of Fire and Ambulance Services. He said the recruits are in the process of significant change in the history of The Gambia’s fireman ship. “The last ten years have witnessed the evolution of the brigade into a truly national and professional organisation,” he said.

According to him, the government of The Gambia has invested in excess of D15, 000,000 to bring the services to the people, with major stations in every administrative region. “Government is cognisant of the need to have highly-trained fire-fighters, thus training courses have been made available both locally and abroad, to which several officers and fire-fighters have benefited from. As we speak, personnel of the brigade are attending the University of The Gambia and other tertiary and professional institute,” he revealed.

Hon Sonko reminded the fire-fighters that they are expected to show courage and professionalism in the face of fire disasters, adding that their role in society is very important. “You are here to save lives and property, and respond to fire disasters and related calamities whenever you are called upon.

It is my belief that the six months training you underwent have made you to better understand the duties and responsibilities of a professional fire-fighter and strengthen your resolve to serve humanity,” he outlined.

SoS Sonko commended the Chief Fire Officer, the officers and fire-fighters of the Gambia Fire and Ambulance services, and registered government’s profound appreciation of the good work the brigade has been doing over the years.

Roger Bagurin, Chief Fire Officer also congratulated the fire-fighters and welcomed them in the profession.