A total of 200 firefighters and 15 management personnel of the Working on Fire-Kishugu Joint Venture (WOF-KJV) departed South Africa on Sunday July 28 to Alberta, Canada, to join the international community in the battle against wildfires.

The Mzanzi1 Hotshots embarked on a chartered flight organised by the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport.

This fire suppression mission, anticipated to last 39 days, including travel and rest days, marks the sixth deployment of a WOF team to Canada.

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According to the minister of forestry, fisheries, and the environment, Dr Dion George, from 2015 to 2023, WOF completed five deployments to Canada under a memorandum of understanding between the two nations. Notably, the 2023 mission involved the historic deployment of 860 firefighters and management personnel, marking one of Canada’s largest international firefighting efforts.

George added that after an intensive three-day training regimen at the Kishugu Training Academy in line with Canadian standards, the Mzanzi1 Hotshots went to the country armed with the theory and practical knowledge expected of them on the front lines.

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The deployment team boasts pump-trained firefighters, all equipped with valid yellow cards over three years of hands-on firefighting experience, and exceptional fitness. Many team members have previous international firefighting experience, equipping them to handle intricate scenarios. Impressively, 30% of this deployment comprises of women, including management team members, highlighting WOF’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.

“I extend my best wishes to the team as they embark on their deployment to Canada to help fight the fires raging in Alberta. They go to Canada to raise the South African flag and share their expertise and camaraderie with colleagues from other Canadian provinces to save lives, homes, businesses and large swathes of vegetation.

“We are proud that South Africa is again able to assist the Canadian firefighting teams in their battle to bring the wildfires under control. The extensive experience and training of these firefighters will significantly enhance efforts to effectively suppress and manage the wildfires in Alberta,” said George.

CIFFC’s request is a glowing endorsement of South Africa’s wildland firefighting ability. For many of the deployed firefighters, this mission will be a transformative experience, fostering youth development and offering a unique opportunity to explore and contribute beyond the South African borders.