News

A New Era for Cape Town’s Fire & Rescue Service: Clinton Manuel Assumes Charge

June 4, 2023

1 min read

Clinton Manuel has been appointed as the new Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of Cape Town’s Fire & Rescue Service, effective June 1, 2023. With over three decades of firefighting experience, Manuel has demonstrated his commitment to community safety.

A Seamless Transition

In a ceremony held at the Epping Fire Station, Manuel received his accredited stars from his predecessor, Ian Schnetler, who retired seven months prior. The moment showcased an undeniable sense of continuity and trust.

A Remarkable Career

Manuel’s rise through the ranks has been nothing short of remarkable. He obtained a National Diploma in Fire Service Technology in 1995 and a degree in Public Management. This drive for excellence contributed to his current esteemed position.

A Vision for the Future

In his acceptance speech, Manuel urged all Fire and Rescue Service employees, as well as the city’s residents, to work together in strengthening and fortifying the service. His vision of a more secure and resilient city resonates with all those who call Cape Town home.

Stellar Reputation

Manuel’s significant accolades include leading the Fire & Rescue Service’s Training Centre to acquire accreditations from the Local Government Sector Education Training Association (LG SETA), the Southern African Emergency Service Institute (SAESI), and the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO). He also played a crucial role in Cape Town becoming the first South African municipal fire service to secure membership in the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC).

Confidence in Manuel’s Leadership

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, expressed his confidence in Manuel’s appointment, citing his comprehensive understanding of the Fire and Rescue Service, his familiarity with the many firefighters under his supervision, and his passion for training, development, and growth.

Inspiring Leadership

Clinton Manuel’s leadership stands as a beacon of hope, signaling a bright future for the Fire & Rescue Service and the city of Cape Town.

Tags:

Serjio Zakharoff
Latest posts

A Russian-Spanish journalist and Cape Town native, channels his lifelong passion for South Africa into captivating stories for his local blog. With a diverse background and 50 years of rich experiences, Serjio's unique voice resonates with readers seeking to explore Cape Town's vibrant culture. His love for the city shines through in every piece, making Serjio the go-to source for the latest in South African adventures.

View all

Maximising ROI: How CEOs Can Use Recruitment Agencies to Drive Business Growth

As business leaders, CEOs constantly search for strategic tools to drive growth and maximise return on investment (ROI). One such avenue is leveraging the expertise of recruitment services. With over 40 years of experience, MASA (Measured Ability South Africa) stands out as a leading player in the recruitment and staffing solutions industry, offering a blend of innovative strategies and time-tested methods to enhance your business performance. The Strategic Advantage of Recruitment Agencies In today’s fast-paced business world, the right staffing decisions are crucial. Recruitment agencies like MASA offer a streamlined, efficient approach to hiring that brings numerous benefits: 1. Access

Durban Super Giants Outshine Paarl Royals in SA20 Cricket League

The Durban Super Giants and Paarl Royals went headtohead in an exhilarating cricket match that left fans on the edge of their seats. The game took place at the Kingsmead Stadium, a renowned venue for cricket, and was the talk of the town. The Super Giants emerged victorious, cementing their supremacy in the SA20 league.

Latest from Blog

vaping south african teenagers adolescent health risks

The Rise of Vaping Among South African Teenagers

Vaping is quickly becoming a popular habit among South African teenagers, drawn by sweet fruity flavors, flashy packaging, and the buzz on social media. Many teens vape to fit in with friends, feel cool and rebellious, or to escape stress and anxiety. However, what seems like harmless fun can quickly turn into addiction, affecting their health and wellbeing. Despite the risks, vaping is often misunderstood, making it harder for families and schools to stop this growing trend. It’s a serious challenge that needs everyone—parents, teachers, and leaders—to work together to protect young people’s futures.

south african agriculture agoa trade impact

South African Agriculture and the Changing Winds of Trade

Since 2000, the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) has helped South African farmers sell fruits like avocados, wine, and citrus to the United States without paying extra taxes. This chance boosted farming communities, especially small farmers and women, by opening up new markets and encouraging growth. But recent U.S. tariffs threaten these gains, making it harder for farmers to compete and putting many livelihoods at risk. Still, South African farmers remain strong and hopeful, working hard to face these new challenges and keep their communities alive.

Trapped Abroad: Ashley Oosthuizen’s Journey Through Thailand’s Legal Labyrinth

Ashley Oosthuizen, a young South African woman, went to Thailand chasing her dreams but ended up trapped in a nightmare. After unknowingly signing for a package with illegal drugs, she was arrested and sentenced to over 13 years in prison, despite being innocent. Her mother moved to Thailand to fight for her, sharing Ashley’s story with the world and gaining support. Even when the real criminal confessed, the Thai courts kept Ashley behind bars. Her story is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the risks travelers face in foreign countries.

saps officers missing hennops river tragedy

Shadows Along the Hennops: Three SAPS Officers Vanish and a River Gives Up Its Secrets

In April 2025, three South African police officers disappeared during a trip and were later found dead near the Hennops River, along with two others. Their white car vanished into the river’s dark, swirling waters, hiding clues and sparking a deep mystery. Families and the public mourned, demanding answers amid fears of foul play. The quiet river, once peaceful, now holds heavy secrets and reminds the nation of the dangers police face and the urgent need for justice.

cape town boatbuilding maritime industry

Cape Town’s Boatbuilding: Crafting a Legacy on the Waterfront

Cape Town’s boatbuilding industry is a shining example of skill and tradition mixed with new technology. It creates beautiful, strong boats that are loved worldwide and supports thousands of jobs in the city. But now, new tariffs on exports, especially to the US, threaten this important work and the people who depend on it. Despite these challenges, boatbuilders, city leaders, and innovators are coming together to protect this proud craft. Their passion and teamwork fuel hope that Cape Town’s boatbuilding legacy will sail on strong into the future.

the ultimate mother city guide