ZANZIBAR: The Zanzibar Fire and Rescue Force has received 19 modern fire trucks from Austria, aimed at improving the efficiency of the force and reducing response time to fire incidents across the Zanzibar islands.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Fire and Rescue Force Commander Rashid Mzee Abdalla said the vehicles are technologically advanced, have large water storage capacity, and are equipped with modern firefighting systems.
“These vehicles will help our force carry out rescue operations, especially in high-rise buildings and areas with challenging infrastructure. They will also enhance our ability to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively,” Abdalla said.
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According to Abdalla, out of the 21 trucks expected, 19 have already arrived, while the remaining two are in the final stages of production in Austria and are expected to arrive soon.
The purchase of the vehicles was financed in collaboration with the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar through a loan of over 28bn/- from the Renforcement Bank of Austria. Both the Government of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Zanzibar government said the project aims to strengthen firefighting services and reduce the impact of fire-related disasters in Zanzibar.