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The Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), together with Santam, has launched a three-day firefighting training programme in Hogsback on 18 November 2025. The initiative targets young volunteers from communities across Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. It aims to improve fire prevention, response, and disaster-management skills as the fire season intensifies.
What Happened
COGTA and Santam have partnered to upskill community-based volunteers through an intensive programme focused on veld-fire prevention and emergency response. The training will run throughout the week in Hogsback, one of the district’s most fire-prone zones.
Officials say the session covers practical techniques, early-warning awareness, coordinated response systems, and the safe use of firefighting equipment. “This programme gives young volunteers the tools they need to protect their communities,” a COGTA facilitator said.
Official Response
COGTA emphasised that the initiative supports vulnerable municipalities within the Amathole District, especially Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality. The department stressed the urgency of preparing communities ahead of the summer fire season.
Santam representatives also praised the programme’s impact.
“Investing in youth capacity is investing in community safety,” the partner organisation noted.
Community Impact
Local leaders believe the training will significantly boost readiness in rural villages that often struggle with late fire alerts and limited resources. The program also empowers young people by equipping them with lifesaving skills and building a stronger volunteer base.
