State keen to boost Fire and Rescue Force

DODOMA: THE government is implementing a major project worth USD 100 million (about 257bn/-) to equip the Fire and Rescue Force with modern vehicles and advanced equipment, to enhance its capacity to deliver timely and effective emergency services across the country.

Deputy Minister for Lands, Housing and Human Settlements Development, Mr Geofrey Pinda, made the statement on behalf of the Minister for Home Affairs in Parliament yesterday, when responding to a question from Chumbuni lawmaker Ussi Salum Pondeza.

Pondeza had asked the government to explain its plans to improve the Fire and Rescue Force, particularly in terms of modern technology, to ensure quick and efficient emergency response for all citizens.

The deputy minister said the government continues to strengthen the Fire and Rescue Force by providing it with the necessary equipment to enable it to perform its duties effectively.

He elaborated that the government is executing a project to procure fire and rescue equipment and vehicles from NAFFCO FZCO, a company based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

According to him, the project will see the acquisition of a wide range of equipment, including 150 fire and rescue trucks, 40 ambulances, 23 fire and rescue boats, one helicopter and modern communication tools.

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He said the assets will significantly improve the force’s operational capabilities and ensure timely service delivery to Tanzanians.

Mr Pinda further noted that the procured equipment and vehicles will be distributed strategically across the country, with priority given to regional centres and areas with high demand for emergency response services. He assured Parliament that the investment reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening national disaster response mechanisms and safeguarding lives and property.

The modernisation of the Fire and Rescue Force is part of broader efforts to build a resilient emergency response infrastructure that can cope with increasing urbanisation, industrial expansion and climate-induced disasters.

Once fully implemented, the project is expected to improve emergency response times and enhance public confidence in the country’s emergency services.