The Eastern Cape Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (EC Cogta), through the Provincial Disaster Management Centre in partnership with Santam, officially handed over-veld fire-fighting equipment to the Joe Gqabi and Chris Hani District Municipalities.

The equipment handover forms part of ongoing efforts by EC Cogta to enhance fire preparedness, improve response capacity, and strengthen resilience among rural and farming communities who are often at the front line of disasters. With these areas prone to veld fires during dry season, the equipment will significantly improve their ability to respond swiftly, protect lives and property, as well as safeguard the environment.

Addressing the ceremony, MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Zolile Williams highlighted the importance of building disaster management capacity across all municipalities and empowering communities to play an active role in prevention and response.

We have made an assessment with regards to fire services, and unfortunately, we are not well resourced. In 2023, a massive fire incident led to many people losing their properties and livestock. As government, we remain committed to protecting the vulnerable, as they are often the most affected by disasters. Public participation must go beyond municipal structures and focus on empowering communities to take an active role in disaster preparedness and response,” said MEC Williams.

Both areas are disaster-prone districts, the delivery of this valuable equipment will go a long way in enhancing the safety of these communities. The municipalities committed to safeguarding the equipment to ensure it serves its intended purpose and benefits the communities.

MEC Williams commended Santam for partnering with government in strengthening local disaster management systems, adding that such collaborations are critical to safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure from the growing threat of veld fires.