Western Cape Government strengthens Witzenberg Municipality's firefighting capacity
On Wednesday, 22 July 2026, the Western Cape Department of Local Government handed over firefighting and emergency response equipment valued at R1 140 090.94 to Witzenberg Municipality at the Ceres Fire Station, reinforcing the municipality's ability to respond to fires and other emergencies
The equipment was procured by Witzenberg Municipality with financial support through the Municipal Fire Services Capacity Grant, administered by the Department of Local Government's Sub-Directorate: Fire and Rescue Services.
The new equipment includes firefighter helmets, extinguishers, Halligan tools, piercing nozzles, rescue ropes and accessories, stabilisation equipment, chainsaws, forcible-entry tools, rescue harnesses, reciprocating saws and other technical rescue equipment.
Speaking at the handover, Western Cape Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, said:
"Our firefighters put themselves in harm's way to protect our communities, often under extremely difficult conditions. The least we can do is ensure they have the right equipment to do their jobs safely and effectively. This investment is about strengthening Witzenberg Municipality's ability to respond quickly and professionally when lives, property and the environment are at risk. Well-equipped local fire services are an essential part of building resilient municipalities, and the Western Cape Government remains committed to supporting them."
The handover forms part of the Western Cape Government's ongoing investment in strengthening municipal fire and rescue services, improving disaster preparedness and ensuring that firefighters have the tools they need to protect lives, property and the environment.
This investment reflects the Department's commitment to building resilient municipalities and supporting local fire services to respond effectively to emergencies across the prov
ENDS
Contact:
Patience Dlikilili
Assistant Director: Corporate Communications
(021) 483 2661
LGCommunications@westerncape.gov.za