Honouring Bravery And Resilience: Recognising Firefighters’ Contributions

South African National Parks (SANParks) recently gathered to honour the incredible efforts of firefighters, partners, and volunteers who demonstrated exceptional bravery and resilience throughout the 2023/24 Western Cape Fire Season, particularly within Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).

During this demanding season, TMNP faced 119 fires from April 2023 to March 2024, up from 85 the previous year. In just April and May 2024, TMNP responded to 32 fires, including five multi-day incidents requiring extended efforts. This included 533 hours of active aerial support and the use of 6,318 litres of water in fire suppression efforts.

Despite the challenges, TMNP has remarkably maintained a record of no fatalities in 25 years, underscoring the dedication and bravery of firefighting teams who risked their lives to protect both communities and the environment.

SANParks extends its gratitude to approximately 300 firefighters and six pilots who worked tirelessly under difficult conditions to control and extinguish fires, as well as to our valued partners and stakeholders, including NCC Environmental Services, Volunteer Wildfire Services, Working on Fire, and Kishugu Aviation, whose support has been crucial.

“To the brave men and women on the front lines,” SANParks says, “your courage, dedication, and resilience have not gone unnoticed. You exemplify the spirit of selflessness and sacrifice, and for that, we are deeply grateful.”