DEPUTY MINISTER DR MASEMOLA PAYS TRIBUTE TO FIREFIGHTERS DURING THE COMMEMORATION OF INTERNATIONAL FIREFIGHTERS’ DAY 2026
By Communications on May 05, 2026
The Deputy Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Dr Namane Dickson Masemola, today delivered the keynote address at the national commemoration of International Firefighters’ Day 2026, hosted collaboratively by the National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), the North West Provincial Disaster Management Centre, Rustenburg Local Municipality, and the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality Fire Services.
Dr Masemola underscored the national and global significance of International Firefighters’ Day, describing it as more than a ceremonial observance, but a moment for reflection, accountability, and renewed commitment to public safety, disaster risk reduction, and community resilience. He paid tribute to South African firefighters as symbols of bravery, selflessness, and professionalism, acknowledging their critical role in saving lives, protecting infrastructure, and responding to disasters under hazardous conditions.
The Deputy Minister called on political leaders, public servants, traditional leadership, and communities to work collectively in supporting firefighters through adequate resources, training, and institutional backing, in line with the principles of accountability and service enshrined in Section 195 of the Constitution.
Dr Masemola was joined by the Executive Mayor of Rustenburg Local Municipality, Cllr Shiela Mabale‑Huma, and Hosi Ntsanwisi, representing the National House of Traditional and Khoi‑San Leaders.
He also honoured firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty and reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening municipal fire and emergency services, emphasising that every municipality must function and be capable of responding effectively to emergencies.
In her welcoming remarks, Executive Mayor Cllr Mabale‑Huma highlighted the importance of collective responsibility in fire safety, prevention, and improved fire management. She emphasised cooperation between government, industry, communities, and emergency services, and expressed appreciation for the courage and professionalism of firefighters, while welcoming all delegates to the commemoration.
The Deputy Minister concluded by reaffirming government’s solidarity with firefighters across the country and CoGTA’s continued commitment to building a safer and more resilient South Africa.
#EveryMunicipalityMustWork