All towns to have fire, emergency and rescue stations

DUE to high incidents of fire in and around towns in the country, government has decided to build fire, emergency and rescue stations in all towns.

This was said by urban and rural development minister Peya Mushelenga on Saturday when he inaugurated the Oshikuku Town Council’s fire station in the Omusati region.

He also launched the town’s 2018-20 strategic plan, and oversaw the groundbreaking ceremony for the public-private partnership between the Oshikuku Town Council and land developers Easy United in a joint venture with Paralo Investment CC.

Mushelenga said government has taken note and is concerned about the prevalence of fire incidents in and around towns, which have led to loss of life and the destruction of property.

“Cabinet decided to ensure that each and every local authority in our country has an operational fire, emergency and rescue station with the necessary tools and equipment to be able to respond efficiently and effectively to any emergency situation in the surroundings,” he stated.

As the implementing agency, his ministry thus engaged relevant development partners to implement the required infrastructure and provide technical support.

The station was built at a cost of N$3 million, fully funded by the ministry.

At the inauguration, the minister implored council to jealously guard the equipment and tools to ensure that they operate effectively and last longer. He furthermore requested council to ensure that skilled personnel are employed to operate the equipment and are capable of responding to emergencies timely.

Oshikuku mayor Mbokoma Mungandjera thanked the ministry for funding the construction, and said it will not only assist those in town, but also people in the surrounding areas, including nearby villagers, where necessary.

Omusati governor Erginus Endjala, chairperson of the Omusati regional council Modestus Amutse, Helao Nafidi mayor Eliaser Nghipangelwa, Windhoek mayor Muesee Kazapua and traditional leaders were among the dignitaries who attended the event.

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