BY NONCEDO SHABANGU
MATSAPHA – His Majesty King Mswati III has issued a powerful call for the rapid expansion and modernisation of the Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Service (ENFRES), after revealing that the department currently covers only 35 per cent of the Kingdom.
The King made the directive while presiding over the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the Fire Service, held at Matsapha International Airport, where he applauded the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting lives and property. His Majesty said the time had come for Eswatini to accelerate the growth of its emergency response infrastructure to ensure every citizen is within safe reach of essential services.
“Our firefighters have demonstrated courage, loyalty, and professionalism for half a century,” said the King. “But we must now strengthen and expand the Service. Thirty-five per cent coverage is not enough. Every Liswati deserves swift protection, regardless of where they live.”
A Royal Directive for Expansion and Excellence
His Majesty outlined a comprehensive plan for national improvement, mandating the construction of additional fire stations across all regions to close the coverage gap. The King urged Government ministries to prioritise funding for new stations, training, and recruitment as part of Eswatini’s broader safety and development agenda.
He further encouraged ENFRES to benchmark against global best practices, ensuring that its firefighters operate to international standards. “You must continue to enhance your expertise,” the King said. “Investment in your training and modern technology is an investment in Eswatini’s safety and future.”
With the rise of urbanisation and high-rise buildings, His Majesty emphasised the need for advanced equipment, modern rescue vehicles, and technology-driven firefighting methods. “The challenges of today demand innovation,” he added. “We must be ready for emergencies of the future.”
Service, Dedication, and National Pride
The King praised the Fire Service for its outstanding work in responding to emergencies ranging from road accidents (tingoti temgwaço) to veld fires (emimangweni), noting that their swift interventions had saved countless lives and properties. He also commended their contribution to Eswatini’s standing in the region, particularly through participation in the SADC Emergency Response Initiative, which he said had “elevated the Kingdom’s flag.”
His Majesty expressed heartfelt appreciation for the gifts presented during the event, including the donation to Her Majesty the Indlovukazi’s Philani Maswati Charity Organisation, which supports elderly citizens. He described the gesture as a reflection of the Fire Service’s compassion and community spirit.
“Your service goes beyond responding to fires,” said the King. “It embodies care, humanity, and the true spirit of Ubuntu. You are ambassadors of discipline and excellence.”
Commitment to National Safety
The golden jubilee celebration concluded with a renewed pledge from both leadership and personnel to strengthen the department and extend its reach nationwide. His Majesty reaffirmed that improving emergency response capacity was not merely a departmental priority but a national mission.
“The work begins now,” the King declared. “Let us ensure that no corner of Eswatini is left unprotected. Together, we will build a nation that stands ready to face every challenge.”
As Eswatini celebrates 50 years of firefighting excellence, the King’s directive signals a new era — one defined by expansion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding every Liswati.
