The Department of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries’ Working on Fire programme welcomed the firefighters, William Malebatsa, Joseph Makwa, Mosehle Mosehle and Siyabonga Mkhakwe, who were deployed to Canada on 10 August. They were part of a group of 29 firefighters from Gauteng who were deployed to Manitoba Province to suppress fires. The firefighters, who spent 35 days battling the raging fires, were welcomed back at OR Tambo Airport on Sunday.
Mosehle Mosehle from the Wedela base said the fires were scary and life-threatening.
‘‘This was my second deployment to Canada. This time around, the fires were very bad. I am glad we saved livelihoods and the lives of people.’’ He said he had been ready and fit for the purpose.
‘‘We aced our mission. We worked with other firefighters from other countries and it was an opportunity to learn new things.’’
William Malebatsa said it was good to gain international experience in fighting wildland fires.
The Minister of Conservation and Climate Change in Manitoba, Canada, Ms Sarah Guillemard, praised the work of the WOF team.
“The effects of climate change have become increasingly evident in the past year. It is mutual partnerships, agreements and aid like ours that can help in mitigating these fires. South Africa will forever hold a special place in our hearts here in Canada and Manitoba. We know we can count on you, as an inter- national partner, in our time of need. Your attitude, song and enthusiasm could be heard across the country. Your deployment was truly inspiring.”
She said the professionalism, courage and commitment demonstrated by the staff of Working on Fire and the partnering agencies working alongside them have earned a special place in the history of Manitoba, and for that, they will forever be grateful.
