BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – The competence shown by fire fighters to protect lives and properties of the nation over the years has boosted investor confidence in Eswatini.
According to Acting Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, investors have been willing to invest their resources in this country partly because of the dedication shown by the firemen and firewomen. Dladla said this today during the first ever Eswatini National Fire Day which was held at Matsapha International Airport. Dladla was making her address, prior to introducing His Majesty King Mswati III to make his address during the day.
“Wena Waphakathi, I would like to begin by expressing the appreciation of Your Government to these dedicated men and women standing before you. As one of the first responders in times of crisis, firefighters serve as the backbone of our emergency response system,” Dladla said. She told the fire fighters that their dedication was the reason why Emaswati were comfortable living in this country.
“Esteemed firefighters, your bravery, commitment, and resilience provide comfort and reassurance to every liSwati, knowing that in times of need, you stand ready to act. Your hard work not only protects our communities but also boosts investor confidence, which is vital for the growth and development of our economy,” she said.
As His Majesty’s Government, Dladla said they were committed to strengthening the fire department’s capacity to continue delivering these essential services. She highlighted that they were working diligently to provide the department with the latest technological equipment necessary for them to perform your duties more efficiently and safely.
“From advanced firefighting tools to cutting-edge communication systems, we are determined to ensure that you have the best resources at your disposal. Beyond equipping our fire department, we recognise the importance of investing in human capital. We are actively working on upskilling our firefighters through advanced training programs to enhance their expertise in handling complex and modern-day emergencies,” she said.
She also acknowledged the growing demand for firefighting services, which was why they were committed to increasing the workforce in the department to ensure a quicker and more effective response to emergencies throughout the country. In line with improving services, His Majesty’s Government is also focused on restoring and enforcing discipline within the firefighting sector.
“We are currently in the process of developing comprehensive fire regulations that will set a new standard of accountability and responsibility. These regulations will not only help maintain order but will also align our services with international best practices, ensuring the highest level of professionalism and safety for both our firefighters and the public,” she said.
In closing, she thanked the courageous fire fighters for their outstanding service to the nation. “These are our heroes, and their dedication to saving lives and protecting property is deeply appreciated. His Majesty’s Government will continue to stand by in providing the tools, training, and requisite support necessary for our firefighters to excel in their duties,” she said.
She pleaded with the nation to all come together to support the Fire Department, as they continued to play a critical role in the society, ensuring that the safety and security of Eswatini remained a top priority.