Byo calls for stakeholder collaboration to tackle fires

Bulawayo (New Ziana) – The Bulawayo City Council on Wednesday called for collaboration between flea market operators, stakeholders and fire department for effective fire safety management in the markets and business premises.

The call was made by city town clerk, Christopher Dube following a number of fire incidences in Bulawayo in recent weeks which destroyed property worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.

In the most recent case, cross border traders operating at Mutize flea market along Lobengula Street in Bulawayo were left counting losses after their merchandise was reduced to ashes by fire.

The merchandise lost included blankets, groceries, detergents, gas cylinders and other items that could not be identified due to the severity of the fire.

“There is need for collaboration between market management and vendors and fire brigade for effective fire safety management in markets,” Dube said.

He discouraged cigarette smoking and improper disposal of lit cigarettes butts in the markets as a precaution.
To effectively prevent and fight fires, Dube called for disaster and risk strategies against fires in flea markets around the city.

He added that there was also need to come up with modern flea markets, as well as educating shop owners and flea market managers on fire safety, and install firefighting equipment the premises.

He also implored traders to desist from making illegal connections, particularly of electricity, in stalls, adding that all flea markets should have protection walls.

Meanwhile, the city`s corporate communications officer, Bongiwe Ngwenya said the Fire Brigade is facing challenges of brain drain due to the economic hardships in the country.

She said as of January this year, the department has lost 38 qualified fire fighters.

“The city has lost young upcoming fire fighters, officers and fire engine drivers making it difficult to close some of the gaps. These were also experienced in practical firefighting. The fire fighters have left for Asia, that is Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia and they are leaving for other local companies who pay in foreign currency,” she said, adding that the city is known for producing top notch fire fighters.

She said the city appreciates continued assistance through partnerships being brought about by those who left for greener pastures.

“One such partnership is the Operation Florian partnership which came about as a result of a former City of Bulawayo fire fighter. The training from the charity has gone a long way in improving our standards of operation and interpretation of fire issues,” Ngwenya said.

New Ziana