Chilanga Town Council is optimistic that it will benefit from the newly commissioned firefighters, following the successful pass-out ceremony of Firefighters Recruit Course Intake 70/2025, held today at the National Fire Service Training School ,in Kabwe, Central Province.
The Council was represented by the Council Division Fire Officer, Mr. Rodgers Muliokela, who joined dignitaries, government officials, and invited guests in witnessing the event officiated by the Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Hon. Gift Sialubalo, MP.
In his keynote address, the Minister commended the graduands for their sacrifice, discipline, and commitment during the sixteen weeks of training, stating that their graduation marked the beginning of a noble journey of service to the nation.
“To the graduands, your perseverance, sacrifice, and discipline have brought you here, and on behalf of Government and the people of Zambia, I congratulate you. Firefighting is not just any other career, it is a calling which requires selfless acts of service and a commitment to protecting the community. To be a firefighter is to embrace courage, patriotism, brotherhood, teamwork, and selflessness,” Hon. Sialubalo said.
The Minister further reiterated Government’s commitment under the leadership of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, to strengthen disaster preparedness and safety measures across the country. Among the measures being implemented are:
1. The Fire and Emergency Management Service Bill, currently at an advanced stage of development.
2. Upgrading and construction of fire stations across the country, including Kasama Fire Station which is 60% complete.
3. The establishment of a state-of-the-art Fire Academy, positioning Zambia as a regional leader in fire and rescue training.
4. Servicing of over 40 fire tender pumps to ensure effective response to the increasing number of fire outbreaks nationwide.
Hon. Sialubalo also urged the graduands to uphold discipline, integrity, and service above self, reminding them that their profession requires vigilance in the face of modern challenges such as climate change and wildfires.
He further called on the public to respect and support firefighters, stressing that any acts of violence or vandalism against firefighters or their facilities would not be tolerated.
Chilanga Town Council looks forward to strengthening its fire and rescue capacity through the deployment of some of these newly trained officers, in line with Government’s vision of building a modern, well-trained, and well-equipped fire service.
