Firefighters across the country commemorated International Firefighters Day in Katima Mulilo on Thursday.
The celebration was marked with a simulation exercise at the Katima Mulilo open market aimed at testing the emergency response readiness, followed by the laying of a wreath in remembrance of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
Mariental Municipality Chief Fire Officer Dirk Cloete emphasised that despite the courage firefighters have, their fire stations remain without adequate equipment.
"The truth is, Deputy Minister, local authority fire services in Namibia remain critically challenged; our firefighters continue to serve with courage and commitment, but courage alone cannot extinguish fires. Dedication alone cannot rescue. Commitment alone cannot replace equipment, protective clothing, bedding apparatus, communication systems and training."
The president for Namibia Emergency Services Institute, Frederika Shigwedha, further stressed the need for mental wellness in the emergency services industry.
"Equally concerning is the lack of adequate psychosocial and mental health support for our firefighters who are regularly exposed to traumatic incidents and high levels of stress."
Shigwedha added that the increasing number of incidents in the community, such as flash floods, chemical spills and climate-related emergencies, demonstrates that Namibia must move beyond simply reacting to disasters and place greater emphasis on preparedness and capacity building.
After witnessing the stimulation exercise, Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development (MURD) Evelyn! Nawases-Taeyele said she will stand by the firefighter's cause. She also added that the engagement offered firefighters a chance to exchange constructive ideas for the best approaches.
"The simulation exercise that was staged and that we witnessed this morning, and I must say that it was quite enlightening, educative and informative for me to have really witnessed, at first-hand experience that I have witnessed this morning, what you are going through. I can just imagine that sacrifice you are making as firefighters. So I am with you together in this going forward now that I know what it means to be a firefighter."