The Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Erastus Uutoni, has inaugurated the newly constructed Oranjemund Fire Station. 

The construction of the fire station was done by the government. 

The new fire station inauguration also saw the unveiling of a new ambulance. 

Minister Uutoni says the government remains committed to supporting local authorities in terms of safety and emergency response. 

"The state and government at all levels have legal obligations to put in place policies, legislation, and institutional frameworks and systems to promote and safeguard the welfare of the citizens. The responsibility of promoting the welfare of citizens in the area of rural development has been entrusted to the Ministry of Urban and Rural Development as well as regional and local governments. Thus, in terms of Section 2 Sub-section 3 of the Local Authority Service Act of 2006, the government, through the ministry responsible for local housing matters, has the duty to provide subsidies to enable local authorities to establish fire brigades." 

The launch of the fire station coincided with the celebration of International Fire Fighters Day.

"Fire is a powerful force and has a reputation for destroying lives, but if we are well equipped and ready to combat fire, we can conquer these dangerous and destructive flames. This day, therefore, clearly marks an important day to pay tribute to firefighters around the world who risk their lives to protect others. It is also time to remember the men and women who have and continue to make the ultimate sacrifice in the line of their duty."