Online Reporter
Raymond Jaravaza, [email protected]
THE rapid expansion of Cowdray Park, Bulawayo’s largest suburb, has prompted Bulawayo City Council (BCC) to establish a new fire station to enhance emergency response times in the area and its surroundings.
The city operates four fire stations —Famona, Northend, Nkulumane and Mpopoma — serving its population of 665 000, as per the 2022 Population and Housing Census.
The establishment of a new fire station comes amid broader concerns about emergency services in Cowdray Park.
Chief fire officer Mr Mhlangano Moyo, said certain sections of Cowdray Park are difficult to reach within the internationally accepted emergency response time of 10 minutes.
“Cowdray Park has over 75 000 residents, and its ongoing expansion necessitates the construction of a fifth fire station. In some cases, it takes 20 to 22 minutes for our teams to reach areas like Esgodweni Mpompini, which is unacceptably long,” he said.
Mr Moyo said delays could lead to significant property loss before firefighters arrive.
He said the plan for a satellite fire station has been approved, with operations expected to commence by year-end.
Initially, two fire engines will be allocated to this temporary facility while a permanent structure is developed.
“Five fire stations will strengthen Bulawayo’s firefighting capabilities and align us with regional and international standards,” said Mr Moyo.
Meanwhile, Operation Florian, a UK-based firefighting charity, continues its partnership with the Bulawayo Fire Brigade by training local firefighters from municipalities, rural district councils and mining companies. Since its inception in 2011, the programme has trained over 800 firefighters, including participants from neighbouring countries like Zambia and Botswana.
Operation Florian has previously donated ambulances, fire engines, and specialised equipment to Bulawayo as part of this collaboration. The initiative promotes knowledge exchange and capacity building while improving emergency management services in the city. Training courses include senior officer development, technical fire safety, rope rescue, emergency driving familiarisation and first aid.
The partnership exemplifies how international collaboration can foster sustainable development through shared expertise and resources. Its long-term impact is evident in the enhanced skills of firefighters and improved emergency response capabilities in Bulawayo.
