Fired up to combat wildfires that threaten lives
Working on Fire gives a life-changing opportunity to fight against fires with their recruitment programme in Krugersdorp.
The Working on Fire-Kishugu Joint Venture in Gauteng recruited 14 prospective wildland firefighters to strengthen the Magaliesberg and Krugersdorp teams.
Working on Fire communications officer Parapara Makgahlela said the province’s recruitment drive saw enthusiastic participation from young men and women in these communities, eager to secure a spot in this essential service. The Working on Fire Programme is part of the Expanded Public Works Programme, aiming to combat poverty and unemployment while equipping youth with valuable specialised skills.
“During recruitment, participants were required to complete a 2.4km run, push-ups, and pull-ups within a set time limit. Due to its strenuous nature, wildland firefighting demands both mental and physical strength. Successful candidates will attend a 25-day wildland firefighting course at the Kishugu Training Academy in Nelspruit,” Makgahlela revealed.
He continued that upon completion, these firefighters will return to bolster their teams in combating wildfires that threaten lives, livelihoods, and properties. Thabo Modise, a young man from Mohale township in the West Rand, is one of the successful candidates set to train at the academy.
“I have been unemployed for the past five years, so this opportunity will improve my household income. Competition was tough, but now I’ll finally be able to put food on the table for my family,” said Modise.
“Wildfires are increasingly common across the globe, endangering lives and livelihoods. I’m ready to help my country in the fight against these destructive fires,” he continued.
After training, Modise will join the Magaliesberg team, where wildfires pose a significant threat to food security and local communities.
