FIRE AID and Dubai Civil Defence Launch Groundbreaking Initiative to Donate Wildfire-Specific Vehicles Across Africa

FIRE AID and Dubai Civil Defence have announced a pioneering partnership to deliver wildfire-specific vehicles to African countries in a first-of-its-kind initiative. The project aims to reduce the environmental impact of wildfires by enhancing firefighting capabilities across the continent.

Since COP28, Dubai Civil Defence has been at the forefront of global efforts to foster collaboration between international fire services, focusing on reducing emissions caused by fires. This partnership exemplifies the power of aid and trade, bringing together innovation, sustainability, and cross-border cooperation.

In the first phase of the project, FIRE AID will work closely with UK-based supplier Angloco Limited to design and manufacture specialized wildfire response vehicles. These cutting-edge vehicles will be donated to Kenya, Morocco, and Ghana, marking the first time such equipment has been deployed in these countries. The vehicles will empower fire services to reach and control fires more efficiently, reducing emissions and protecting lives and property.

Phase two of the project will see Dubai Civil Defence donating decommissioned vehicles to several African countries, further supporting FIRE AID’s ongoing initiatives in Malawi, The Gambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, and Kenya. The vehicles, which will come fully equipped and recently serviced, will be repurposed to extend their operational life, providing a more sustainable alternative to scrapping useable equipment.

Lt Col Essa Almutawa said:

“This initiative is a testament to our leadership’s unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global solidarity. It reflects our core belief that we must always strive to do more, extending our expertise and resources to where they are needed most. By coming together on this project, we are not only enhancing firefighting capabilities but also fostering hope, resilience, and long-lasting impact. As we work to save lives, we are reminded of the profound truth that saving a single soul is like saving all of humanity. Our mission is to empower communities to protect both lives and the environment, ensuring a safer, more sustainable future for all.”

Comprehensive in-country training on the vehicles will be provided, with follow-up engagement planned quarterly to monitor their usage and impact. Data collected will feed into Dubai Civil Defence’s fire tracking systems, creating a global resource for understanding fire-related emissions and enhancing response strategies worldwide.

David O’Neill Chair of FIRE AID said:

“I am privileged to endorse this distinctive initiative. Leveraging our established networks throughout the continent to bolster the objectives of the Dubai Civil Defence represents an effective approach to swiftly enhance capability in the region, improve environmental conditions, and ultimately save lives. We are eager to expand upon this initiative and forge a robust partnership for delivery.”

This collaborative effort brings together FIRE AID, Angloco Limited, the UK Department for Business and Trade, Dubai Civil Defence, and fire services across Africa, reflecting a united commitment to innovation, environmental sustainability, and international cooperation.