South Africa’s wildland firefighters from the Working on Fire-Kishugu Joint Venture (WOF-Kishugu JV) returned home after successfully deploying in Canada. Touching down at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) at 13:30, the Mzanzi1 Hotshots were met with a warm and triumphant welcome. WOF-Kishugu JV management, dignitaries, and family gathered to greet the 216 firefighters and management personnel, who were flown in after being instrumental in battling some of Canada’s most severe wildland fires in Alberta Province.
Following their arrival, the team was escorted to the Kishugu Training Academy, where a formal Homecoming Ceremony marked the successful conclusion of their mission. The Mzanzi1 Hotshots were praised for their exceptional fitness, discipline, and commitment. This marks the sixth deployment of South African firefighters to Canada since 2015, under the Canada-South Africa Bilateral Agreement, which facilitates cooperation on environmental matters, including the exchange and provision of firefighting personnel.
During the Homecoming Ceremony, the Canadian High Commissioner to South Africa, His Excellency Mr. Christopher Cooter, extended his heartfelt appreciation to the firefighters. “Your courage and dedication have made a profound impact on our country,” he remarked. “Canada is deeply grateful for the unwavering support that South Africa has provided over the years. The Mzanzi1 Hotshots have once again demonstrated the strength of our bilateral partnership and the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges.”
In her address, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Ms. Berenice Swarts, commended the team for their remarkable achievements. “The success of this mission is a testament to the skill, resilience, and professionalism of our firefighters,” she said. “Your efforts have not only saved lives and property in Canada but have also elevated South Africa’s reputation on the global stage.”
The Homecoming Ceremony was not only a celebration of their successful mission but also an opportunity to reflect on the deep bonds forged between South Africa and Canada through years of collaboration. Notably, since the deployment began, there have been no injuries on duty – an achievement made possible by the team’s rigorous discipline and their high level of physical and mental fitness. Their ability to maintain peak performance under the most challenging conditions, coupled with strict adherence to safety protocols, ensured that every firefighter returned home safely. This accomplishment highlights the dedication and professionalism of the Mzanzi1 Hotshots, who not only made a significant impact abroad but also set a standard of excellence for international firefighting efforts.
The success of this deployment highlights the critical role of partnership and collaboration in combating environmental disasters, in the face of climate change. This deployment also demonstrated confidence in the capabilities of South African firefighters who are always ready to tackle even the most formidable challenges on the global stage.
The Assistant Deputy Minister of Forestry and Parks in Alberta Province, Mr Daniel Lux, praised the Mzanzi 1 hotshots for their hard work. “A heartfelt thank you to all the firefighters and support staff from South Africa who assisted us in the time of need this summer, you arrived during the most challenging time, took the hard work, and lent a helping hand to contain fires without losing any home”
Brian Lopushinksky, Senior Manager: Wildfire Response, Government of Alberta and Alberta Wildfire thanked the firefighters for their assistance during the 2024 wildfire season in Canada. “We had some struggles this year with the 2024 wildfires season, your assistance was greatly appreciated. We have a long standing relationship with multiple deployments from South Africa, and you returned the favour again” he said.
“You took your time away from your friends and family to help us, we truly appreciate it” mentioned Ms. Emily Smith, Wildfire Information Officer in Canada to the firefighters as they mobilise back home to their families and friends.
The Working on Fire-Kishugu Joint Venture always stands ready and able to assist partners, both domestically and internationally. With its highly capable and extensive resources, WOF-Kishugu JV is committed to saving lives, protecting the environment and making a difference.
