Windhoek cuts fire outbreaks to 569, informal settlements still at risk
Windhoek mayor Ndeshihafela Larandja has drawn attention to the ongoing challenges posed by fires in Windhoek, particularly in high-density informal settlements.
According to city data, the Fire Brigade responded to over 2 000 fire-related incidents in 2024, with nearly 75% occurring in informal settlements.
These incidents resulted in fatalities, the loss of homes, and the destruction of possessions, often from families with limited means.
Despite these grim statistics, Larandja announced a reduction in reported fire outbreaks from 705 cases in 2023/24 to 569 in the previous financial year.
“This reduction can be attributed to robust and deliberate community fire safety and prevention strategies. We are shifting from reactive actions to proactive, risk-mitigation measures. There is hope, and that hope lies in awareness, prevention, and collective responsibility,” Larandja said.
The mayor made these remarks during her keynote address at the official opening of the International Fire Safety Week 2025 on Monday at the City of Windhoek’s Headquarters Fire Station.
‘Fires know no boundaries’
Larandja stressed the importance of harmony and vigilance in addressing fire risks across the city.
“Fire outbreaks do not know any boundaries of any sort, and thus we must unite in advancing fire safety and prevention strategies,” she advised.
She reaffirmed the city’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all residents through effective municipal services, emphasising that fire safety remains a critical priority.
She noted that International Fire Safety Week, now in its second year, has become a key event on the city’s annual calendar.
Last year, the initiative reached more than 5 000 community members through awareness campaigns and educational activities across schools, churches, and social media platforms.
“Today, we build on that foundation with an even stronger commitment to protect lives, property, and the future of our communities through fire safety education and prevention,” she said.
Smoke alarms, saving lives
Larandja further highlighted that funds raised from last year’s campaign enabled the city to purchase and install almost 200 smoke alarms in informal settlements, a move she described as “life-changing”.
“This project already brought safety and peace of mind to many families who previously lived with the constant fear of fire. A simple smoke alarm can reduce the risk of fire fatalities by up to 50%,” the mayor said.
She also called for community-wide participation in fire prevention, noting that small actions, such as teaching children “stop, drop, and roll” or ensuring families have emergency escape plans, could save lives.
“Every resident, from the youngest to the oldest, can play a role in preventing fire disasters,” she emphasised.
This year’s Fire Safety Week runs under the theme “Unite to Ignite for a Secure Nation”, which the mayor described as a reminder that fire prevention is a shared responsibility.
“The fight against fire is not only about extinguishing flames, but also about igniting knowledge, responsibility, and solidarity,” she remarked.
She praised the city’s Fire Brigade Services for their daily dedication and bravery, urging residents to support them by being more “fire savvy”.
“Their dedication through teaching, training, and community engagement must be embraced. Fire safety principles should be part of our daily lives,” she said.
According to city data, the Fire Brigade responded to over 2 000 fire-related incidents in 2024, with nearly 75% occurring in informal settlements.
These incidents resulted in fatalities, the loss of homes, and the destruction of possessions, often from families with limited means.
Despite these grim statistics, Larandja announced a reduction in reported fire outbreaks from 705 cases in 2023/24 to 569 in the previous financial year.
“This reduction can be attributed to robust and deliberate community fire safety and prevention strategies. We are shifting from reactive actions to proactive, risk-mitigation measures. There is hope, and that hope lies in awareness, prevention, and collective responsibility,” Larandja said.
The mayor made these remarks during her keynote address at the official opening of the International Fire Safety Week 2025 on Monday at the City of Windhoek’s Headquarters Fire Station.
‘Fires know no boundaries’
Larandja stressed the importance of harmony and vigilance in addressing fire risks across the city.
“Fire outbreaks do not know any boundaries of any sort, and thus we must unite in advancing fire safety and prevention strategies,” she advised.
She reaffirmed the city’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all residents through effective municipal services, emphasising that fire safety remains a critical priority.
She noted that International Fire Safety Week, now in its second year, has become a key event on the city’s annual calendar.
Last year, the initiative reached more than 5 000 community members through awareness campaigns and educational activities across schools, churches, and social media platforms.
“Today, we build on that foundation with an even stronger commitment to protect lives, property, and the future of our communities through fire safety education and prevention,” she said.
Smoke alarms, saving lives
Larandja further highlighted that funds raised from last year’s campaign enabled the city to purchase and install almost 200 smoke alarms in informal settlements, a move she described as “life-changing”.
“This project already brought safety and peace of mind to many families who previously lived with the constant fear of fire. A simple smoke alarm can reduce the risk of fire fatalities by up to 50%,” the mayor said.
She also called for community-wide participation in fire prevention, noting that small actions, such as teaching children “stop, drop, and roll” or ensuring families have emergency escape plans, could save lives.
“Every resident, from the youngest to the oldest, can play a role in preventing fire disasters,” she emphasised.
This year’s Fire Safety Week runs under the theme “Unite to Ignite for a Secure Nation”, which the mayor described as a reminder that fire prevention is a shared responsibility.
“The fight against fire is not only about extinguishing flames, but also about igniting knowledge, responsibility, and solidarity,” she remarked.
She praised the city’s Fire Brigade Services for their daily dedication and bravery, urging residents to support them by being more “fire savvy”.
“Their dedication through teaching, training, and community engagement must be embraced. Fire safety principles should be part of our daily lives,” she said.
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