The Nyandeni Local Municipality and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) today signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing the first time the NSRI has entered a comprehensive services agreement with any municipality in South Africa. As part of the initiative, a rescue vehicle and vessel were officially handed over to Station 49 (Mdumbi).
What Happened
At a formal handover ceremony, the municipality in partnership with the NSRI delivered a new rescue vehicle and a sea vessel to Station 49, known for its Mdumbi Sea Rescue and Surf Rescue Swimmers.
This life-saving equipment will support operations aimed at reducing drownings and preserving livelihoods around water in the region. The event was attended by local officials, rescue teams, and community members.
Official Response
NSRI CEO Mike Vonke called the agreement “historic”, stating:
“This MOU we are signing with Nyandeni is indeed historic. The NSRI does not have an agreement that covers all our services with any other municipality in South Africa.”
Local authorities stressed that this partnership is a proactive response to past drowning incidents, which have affected the community in recent years.
“We are fighting for the safety of our people. We want people to be comfortable and relaxed on our beaches,” a municipal representative said.
Community Impact
Beyond safety, the initiative is expected to bring long-term social and economic benefits. It opens employment and training opportunities for the youth in the area, especially in fields related to marine safety, rescue operations, and tourism support.
The partnership also signals a commitment to creating safer, more accessible beaches, encouraging tourism and boosting community confidence in local coastal infrastructure.
