Monrovia, Liberia – With the dry season already underway, DN News Liberia has learned from reliable sources within the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) that the department is facing significant operational challenges due to delayed funding from the Ministry of Finance.
According to the information obtained, the LNFS has only one functional fire truck, leaving it ill-equipped to handle potential fire outbreaks during the dry season. Insiders disclosed that the procurement process for additional fire trucks, water tankers, fire jeeps, administrative vehicles, and uniforms has been completed, with contracts signed with the vendor. However, the government has reportedly failed to pay the remaining 60% of the funds required for these critical resources to be delivered.
The sources also revealed that the LNFS has been without gasoline for its fire truck for the past four months, further crippling its ability to respond to emergencies.
“This is the dry season when fires are more frequent and dangerous. Without additional resources, it will be difficult to manage fires and protect lives and properties,” one source said.
The delay in funding is reportedly causing growing frustration within the LNFS, with calls for the Ministry of Finance to act swiftly to release the necessary funds.
DN News Liberia reached out to the Ministry of Finance for comment but received no response by the time of publication.
As the dry season intensifies, the lack of adequate fire-fighting resources poses a significant risk to communities across Liberia. Citizens and stakeholders are urging the government to prioritize the LNFS’s needs to prevent avoidable disasters.
