Dubai Civil Defense and FIRE AID have announced a new partnership to supply wildfire-specific vehicles to African countries, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of wildfires and improve firefighting capabilities across the continent.
In the first phase of the initiative, Dubai Civil Defense will collaborate with UK-based Angloco Limited to design and manufacture specialized wildfire response vehicles. These vehicles will be donated to Kenya, Morocco, and Ghana, marking the first deployment of such equipment in these regions.
The project seeks to enhance wildfire response capacity, helping to mitigate emissions and protect communities from the widespread devastation caused by wildfires.
The second phase will involve the donation of decommissioned, fully equipped vehicles from Dubai Civil Defense to additional African countries. These vehicles, serviced and ready for operation, will extend their lifespan and provide crucial support to firefighting efforts, representing a sustainable solution by repurposing functional resources.
FIRE AID, which has previously supported firefighting initiatives in countries like Malawi, The Gambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, and Kenya, will continue its involvement by providing comprehensive training for local fire services to ensure effective use of the new and repurposed vehicles.
Lt Col Essa Almutawa of Dubai Civil Defense emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating, “This initiative reflects our leadership’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global solidarity. It underscores our belief in extending our expertise and resources where they are most needed.”
David O’Neill MBE, Chair of FIRE AID, highlighted the partnership’s potential, adding, “By leveraging our established networks throughout the continent, this collaboration with Dubai Civil Defense will rapidly enhance capabilities, improve environmental outcomes, and ultimately save lives.”
