MARTIN MMAWAYA
GWERU-Firefighters at Zimbabwe’s airports have received a major safety boost after the City of Gweru handed over 115 fire tunics and 115 bunker pants to the Airport Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ), strengthening emergency response capacity nationwide.
The personal protective equipment (PPE), donated by Operation Florian through the City of Gweru, was officially handed over on Friday as authorities move to improve safety standards in aviation emergency services.
The ACZ is responsible for the development, management and operation of the country’s major airports, including aviation safety, firefighting and rescue services.
Its mandate includes ensuring compliance with international civil aviation safety standards, particularly in emergency preparedness and response at airports handling both domestic and international traffic.
Mayor Councillor Martin Chivhoko said the donation would significantly reduce occupational risks faced by firefighters and enhance response capacity during aircraft-related emergencies.
“This equipment meets international standards and will go a long way in protecting lives, assets and critical infrastructure,” Chivhoko said, stressing the importance of partnerships in strengthening public safety systems.
Receiving the PPE on behalf of ACZ chief executive Tawanda Gusha, chief fire officer Bhii Sithole said the gear would be deployed across the country’s airports to support frontline firefighters.
“These are not just uniforms; they represent a clear commitment to the safety of firefighters who respond to aircraft emergencies at our airports,” Sithole said.
He welcomed Operation Florian’s continued support and expressed hope that the partnership would expand to include training in modern firefighting techniques.
Town clerk Livingston Churu said the City of Gweru was proud to facilitate a donation with national impact, noting that collaboration remained key to building resilient emergency services.
The handover, witnessed by various stakeholders, underscores the growing role of partnerships in plugging resource gaps and improving safety across Zimbabwe’s aviation sector.
