Zwelakhe continues to shape Boksburg’s fire services

For decades Zwelakhe Mtshali (57) has dedicated much of his life to serving the community and ensuring the operational readiness of the Boksburg Fire Station as the station manager.

Born and raised in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, Zwelakhe’s journey into the fire services started far from the station floors he now manages.

After completing his matric in 1989, Mtshali moved to the East Rand in 1990, where he secured his first job as a security officer with Coin Security. In 1992, he made the shift to a similar role with the Greater Germiston Municipality.

Zwelakhe was keen to grow in his career, and in 1995, he enrolled in the necessary courses to become an ambulance assistant. The following year, in 1996, he took the plunge and became a firefighter.

Over the years, he climbed the ranks, and in 2004, he was promoted to shift manager at Katlehong Fire Station. Two years later, his hard work and dedication led him to his current position as station manager.

Daily responsibilities include overseeing administrative tasks, ensuring the readiness of vehicles and manpower, and managing the operational side of things. As the station manager, he also leads his team in responding to emergencies when needed.

A key part of his role is troubleshooting and resolving problems as they arise, whether it’s a vehicle breakdown or a staffing shortage.

One thing that is challenging for him is managing a team of 42 personnel who report to him. “It’s a lot of people to co-ordinate.”

Another hurdle he regularly encounters is dealing with mechanical failures of equipment, which requires quick thinking and problem-solving skills.

Zwelakhe further stressed the importance of staying updated with the latest tools and systems to maintain efficiency as technology is constantly evolving.

Among the many incidents he has dealt with over the years, the gas tanker explosion on December 24, 2022, will forever remain with him.

“I received a call that all my firefighters had died. I was cold. Later, I found out they were injured and not dead. It was a huge shock for me.”

Response time
Zwelakhe also raised an important issue about public awareness and the correct way to activate emergency services.
He explained that many people still mistakenly dial 10111, which connects them to SAPS, rather than calling the dedicated emergency services number – 011 458 0911.

“This helps us respond immediately as the call is logged and emergency services are activated straight away.”
Preparing the next generation

Zwelakhe is focused on mentoring younger firefighters to take over his responsibilities.
“I’m praying for the younger generation to step up. I try my best to groom them and pass on everything I’ve learned over the years.”

His advice for aspiring firefighters is straightforward but important: “Learn, get your qualifications, and always be ready.”

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