The National Fire Authority (NFA) has celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of its inaugural emergency pre-hospital ambulance service. The event was officiated by Maciu Nalumisa, the Minister for Housing and Local Government, who emphasized the government’s substantial backing, including a notable allocation of $2.1 million earmarked for ambulance services in the upcoming 2024-2025 fiscal year.
During the ceremony, Minister Nalumisa reflected on the progress made since the introduction of the National Ambulance Service Act in 2010, which established the framework for NFA’s current operations. He noted that, over the past five years, ambulance calls have constituted 26 percent of all calls received by the NFA, making it the second most frequent type of call after private fire alarm incidents.
Since the beginning of this year, the NFA has responded to 170 fire emergencies and 152 road accidents, demonstrating the critical need for effective emergency services. Nalumisa announced that the government has consistently supported the NFA, providing $6.1 million for its operations.
In light of this funding, the NFA has acquired two new ambulances, and further investments are planned for additional ambulances to enhance services across Fiji. Nalumisa stressed the importance of ensuring that every community has access to advanced emergency services and emphasized the commitment to training personnel to deliver efficient emergency healthcare across the islands.
This initiative represents a remarkable step toward improving healthcare and emergency response capabilities in Fiji, promising a brighter and healthier future for its communities. With continued government support and investment, the NFA is set to expand its services further, ensuring that timely and quality emergency care is accessible to all Fijians.
Summary: The National Fire Authority launched its first pre-hospital ambulance service, backed by a $2.1 million government investment. Since 2010, ambulance calls have increasing significantly, highlighting the need for quality emergency services. The government plans to further fund more ambulances and personnel training, aiming for improved healthcare access across Fiji.
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