The National Fire Force (NFF) has received a significant boost to its operations following the donation of 15 solar lights by Honourable Alfred Ayodele Thompson, Member of Parliament for the Western Urban District.
The official handover took place on Monday, 8th September 2025, at the NFF Headquarters in Freetown, in the presence of senior Fire Force officers and members of the media. The initiative forms part of Honourable Thompson’s broader project to install 300 solar lights across the Western Urban District.
Speaking at the ceremony, Honourable Thompson explained that the donation was prompted by challenges he observed during an oversight visit to fire stations across the country. He noted that each of the 15 fire stations nationwide would receive a solar light to improve their emergency response capabilities, particularly at night.
“During nighttime emergencies, the Fire Force needs adequate lighting to fill their tanks and respond swiftly to save lives. These solar lights, each costing NLe 1,700, will enhance their operational effectiveness. This is part of my commitment to delivering meaningful projects to the people I represent,” he stated.
In addition to the NFF, Honourable Thompson has also distributed solar lights to several communities, including Lumley (20), Aberdeen (15), Murray Town (15), Wilberforce (15), Tengbeh Town (70), Congo Town (70), Dwarzack (5), and Sumaila Town (4), as well as to several police stations.
Receiving the donation, Chief Fire Officer Nazir Ahmad Alie Kamanda Bongay expressed deep appreciation for the support, describing it as a rare but commendable gesture.
“This is one of the few times we have felt truly supported in our work. Honourable Thompson took the time to identify our 15 fire stations and ensured each received support. We are grateful for his leadership and commitment. I hope other Sierra Leoneans will follow his example to strengthen fire service delivery nationwide,” Bongay said.
He assured that the solar lights would be installed immediately at all 15 fire stations and closely monitored for maintenance, adding that any malfunction would be promptly addressed.
By Lemuella Tarawallie
