•LOCAL Government Minister Vincent Mwale (centre) takes to the dance floor during the Fire Fighters annual ball held in Lusaka on Friday evening. picture by JAJAH COULIBALY
By JAJAH COULIBALY –
LOCAL Government Minister Vincent Mwale has disclosed that a fire policy is being formulated to provide guidelines for the efficient operation of the Fire Service Department.
Mr Mwale said his Government was aware of all the gaps in the fire industry and discussions were currently underway to enhance the fire brigade.
“Under the leadership of his Excellency Edgar Lungu, we are determined to transform this noble profession and bring it to a level comparable to international standards,” he said.
He was speaking when he officiated at the fire brigade annual ball held in Lusaka on Friday evening.
He further assured fire fighters that his ministry will work hard to ensure decent accommodation and fire fighting equipment is provided to the officers to ensure safety in the country.
Chief Fire Fighter at the Lusaka Fire Brigade Robert Zulu outlined the challenges faced by his team during operations among them being accessibility to most township roads which tend to delay fire quenching or rescue operations.
“Sometimes members of the public attack us by stoning us and damaging property for coming late. Guest of honour sir, if accommodation is catered for us in one place, we will be able to effectively deliver because as a team we will be in one place,” he said.
