31 Aug 2016

Ambassador of Japan, Mr Masahiro Onishi, has requested Batswana to support fire fighters who pledged to save people’s lives, protect property from destruction by fire and render humanitarian service.

Mr Onishi said this at the official opening of national inter-fire wellness week in Orapa on Wednesday.

The event brought together fire fighters from private and government institutions.

Mr Onishi congratulated Botswana as it celebrates its 50th anniversary of independence, adding that this year also marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Japan and Botswana.

He said as fire fighters played a vital role in people’s lives, it was important to converge and share experiences and advice each other, saying he is impressed by how firefighting services have evolved in Botswana.

Mr Onishi said initially fire services focused only on fire fighting, but it now covered a wide spread of activities ranging from extrications at the time of traffic accidents, paramedic assistance and inspection of buildings before and after construction.

He noted that over the years, more fire stations have been built, saying that is one of the milestone achieved over the 50 years Botswana has been independent.

Mr Onishi  also commended fire fighters for having chosen such a noble career, where one needs to have love and passion for the job, often needed to work extra hours as well as to dedicate him or herself 100 per cent when disaster strikes .

The Chairperson of the National Inter Fire Wellness  committee, Mr Juniet Sechele said the purpose of the event is to bring fire fighters together nationwide to engage on work related issues and showcase the latest in firefighting technology.

Orapa councilor, Mr Koketso Seloi decried long distances between places and fire stations, saying it makes difficult for fire fighters to cover affected areas on time. ENDS