In a proactive effort to curb the growing threat of bushfires in Northern Ghana, environmental NGO A Rocha Ghana has rolled out a student fire sensitization programme targeting young learners in the Savannah landscape. The initiative, which engages 240 students from 12 selected primary and junior high schools in the west Gonja Municipality, aims to promote responsible fire use and reduce wildfire risks during the dry season.
The programme uses the innovative Flames of Duality signage as a central teaching and discussion tool. Through 30-minute interactive outdoor sessions, students are introduced to safe fire practices while also learning to respect local traditions and biodiversity. The signage, mounted at the entrance of Damongo from Tamale, near the military barracks, visually captures both the benefits and dangers of fire use in the savannah, making it a powerful educational and advocacy resource for students and the wider community.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Isaac Kofi Ntori, Project Officer of A Rocha Ghana and lead facilitator, highlighted the urgency of the initiative.
“Bushfires are one of the biggest environmental challenges we face in Northern Ghana. They destroy trees, wildlife, habitats, and the entire ecosystem,” he said. “Fire is useful in our daily lives, but when used carelessly, its damage far outweighs its benefits.”
Mr. Ntori explained that while A Rocha Ghana has long collaborated with the Ghana National Fire Service to sensitize communities through radio programmes and community outreach, educating students is equally critical. “During off-school hours, some children find themselves in the bush, and a small fire can quickly spread into a devastating wildfire. Teaching them when and how to use fire safely is key,” he noted.
The sensitization exercise involved 12 schools, including Yagbon JHS Blocks “A” and “B”, Damongo Girls Model JHS, St. Anne’s Primary Blocks “A” and “B”, Canteen JHS Blocks “A” and “B”, Canteen Primary Block “A”, Murugu RC JHS, Murugu RC Primary, Mognori Primary, and Larabanga JHS Block “A”. A Arocha Ghana is optimistic that the students will pass on the knowledge to their peers, multiplying the impact of the programme.
According to A Rocha Ghana, the initiative is not a one-off event but a living, routine programme, especially during the dry season when the environment is most vulnerable to fires. The organization has also invited representatives from partner institutions to participate, contribute expert insights, and help amplify community awareness through media engagement.
Mr. Ntori concluded with a strong message to the public: “Fire can destroy lives, property, and ecosystems. We must handle it wisely. Fire is part of our environment, but we should never play with it or use it in ways that destroy our own lives.”
The student fire sensitization programme was held on Friday, 23rd January 2026, marking another step in A Rocha Ghana’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable fire management in the savannah regions.
source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
