With the devastating fires that ravaged parts of the Waterberg last year fresh in mind, firefighters and other role players gathered in Polokwane last Wednesday to celebrate International Firefighters’ Day (IFFD).
Working on Fire (WoF) and Capricorn District Municipality paid a special tribute to firefighters who had lost their lives while executing their duty in the past year. The commemorations were held at the Polokwane Cricket Grounds.
Among those remembered was Samuel Ramokgaba who died last year whilst battling raging fires in the Vaalwater area in the Waterberg.
Also remembered on the day were Thabo Maumakwe, Sizwe Bangani, Nkosonathi Sithole, all from the Rust de Winter area who perished on 25 September 2007; Themba Kali who passed away from injuries he sustained while battling raging fires in the same area on 31 September 2010 as well as Bongani Nkala and Kagiso Mothlabane perished in a fatal car accident while on duty on 20 January 2014.
“IFFD is celebrated yearly on 4 May. On this day the whole world commemorates the firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty and also to acknowledge those who sacrifice their lives daily to protect our lives and environments.
“With this day we are also thanking the current and past firefighters for their contributions.” WoF Provincial General Manager, Sam Maepa said.
As part of the commemorations close to 200 fire fighters from WoF together with fire fighters from Capricorn District Municipality and private sector marched through the city to create more awareness on the day.
Story: Herbert Rachuene
>>herbert@mailbox.co.za
Featured photo: Sam Maepa, WoF Provincial General Manager.
Video: WoF Provincial General Manager, Sam Maepa paying a special tribute to Firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty.
