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In a significant step toward enhancing disaster preparedness, the Alfred Nzo District Municipality (ANDM) will officially hand over seven emergency response vehicles on Friday, 9 May 2025 at its main offices in eMaXesibeni.
The event will be led by Executive Mayor Cllr. Vukile Mhlelembana and members of the Mayoral Committee. It will also mark the local commemoration of International Firefighters’ Day (IFFD), a global observance held annually on 4 May to honour firefighters who have died in the line of duty and to celebrate those who continue to serve.
The fleet includes two Major Pumps Fire Engines, equipped with lifesaving rescue tools such as Jaws of Life, Godiva pumps with 20 litres-per-second output, deep lifting pipes, and extension ladders. In addition, five Skid Units for grass and veld fires will be distributed across five regional centres. Each unit comes mounted on a bakkie with 500-litre water tanks and fire-beating equipment.
The handover comes just ahead of the Eastern Cape’s disaster season, where risks of wildfires and structural incidents are elevated. The Municipality says the new vehicles will significantly improve response times and community safety.
The event reflects ANDM’s commitment to investing in disaster resilience while paying tribute to the daily sacrifices made by local firefighting teams.
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