Canada is currently experiencing the worst wildfire season in its history, with over 5,800 fires recorded and more than 14 million hectares destroyed in 2023. To combat this crisis, the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) has requested assistance from South Africa’s Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), specifically from their Working on Fire (WoF) program. As a result, a fourth team of 215 South African firefighters will fly to the Province of British Columbia on August 25, 2023.
Alarming Statistics and Evacuations
With evacuations occurring in British Columbia and the Northwest Territories, Minister Barbara Creecy describes the situation in Canada as dire. The CIFFC reports that over 137,000 square kilometers of land have been burned across the country, painting a grim picture of the devastation.
Collaboration and Success
The collaboration between the Canadian and South African teams has been highly praised by international wildfire authorities and firefighters from countries like the USA, Mexico, Spain, Chile, and Australia. South Africa’s WoF program has been a beacon of hope and resilience in the midst of this crisis.
The Exceptional Mzanzi4 Firefighters
The Mzanzi4 firefighters, named after the fourth group of South African firefighters, have been lauded for their exceptional energy, sturdy work ethic, and safety measures on the fire line. Their ability to adapt to the drastically different conditions in Canada, compared to those in South Africa, has also been a shining example of their professionalism and dedication to the cause.
Preparations for Deployment
Before their deployment, the new group of 215 firefighters will assemble at the Kishugu Training Academy to begin their preparations for the challenging task ahead. Their deployment marks a total of 860 firefighters and management personnel sent to Canada during this catastrophic fire season.
Minister Creecy’s Best Wishes
Minister Creecy extends her best wishes to the Mzanzi4 firefighters as they embark on their mission to Canada. She states that the deployment of South African firefighters has been a “resounding success thus far” and has received immense praise from Canadian wildfire authorities, as well as other international firefighters.
Solidarity and Cooperation in Times of Need
In an unprecedented time of need, the South African firefighters have proven that solidarity and cooperation among nations can have a profound impact on disaster mitigation. Their tireless efforts in Canada’s worst wildfire season have not only saved lives and preserved the environment but also demonstrated the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
