International Firefighters’ Day 2026: Tribute to Firefighters and Launch of National Fire Safety Campaign

The International Firefighters’ Day 2026 was commemorated with a solemn ceremony dedicated to honouring the courage and sacrifice of firefighters in Mauritius and across the world, this morning at the Coromandel Fire Station.

The Minister of Local Government, Mr Ranjiv Woochit, was present on the occasion, alongside the Junior Minister, Mr Mohammad Fawzi Allymun and the Acting Chief Fire Officer of the Mauritius Fire and Rescue Services (MFRS), Mr Hemant Gunnasya.

The ceremony, organised by the Ministry of Local Government in collaboration with the MFRS, forms part of a broader national effort to strengthen fire safety awareness, emergency preparedness and disaster risk reduction. It also marked the official launch of the Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness Campaign 2026, which commenced today and will be rolled out across vulnerable areas of the island.

In his address, Minister Woochit paid tribute to the courage, discipline and unwavering commitment of firefighters, emphasising their critical role in safeguarding lives, property and communities. He noted that International Firefighters’ Day is both a moment of remembrance for fallen heroes and an opportunity to recognise the daily sacrifices of serving officers.

Highlighting the importance of the new sensitisation campaign, the Minister stated that it will build a stronger prevention culture, enhance public awareness, and reduce avoidable emergencies through community-based education and engagement.

Mr Ranjiv Woochit also outlined Government’s continued efforts to enhance the operational effectiveness of the MFRS through sustained investments in modern equipment, training and infrastructure. He indicated that new fire stations are under construction in Goodlands and Montagne Blanche to expand national coverage and reduce response times in accident-prone and high-risk areas. He moreover reaffirmed Government’s commitment to building a more responsive and resilient fire service, pointing out that improving intervention delays remains a priority, as rapid response is critical to saving lives and minimising damage.

For his part, Mr Gunnasya informed that 69 new recruits were enlisted on 17 April 2026 and are currently undergoing an initial six-month training programme, followed by six months of practical exposure across key operational divisions before being confirmed as full-fledged firefighters. He underlined that the MFRS has evolved into an all-hazards response agency engaged not only in firefighting, but also in rescue operations, disaster response and humanitarian assistance.

He also spoke about ongoing improvements in operational capacity, including specialised rescue teams, advanced equipment such as the 42-metre ladder and ultra-high-pressure systems, as well as strengthened paramedic response capabilities, supported by a network of 11 fire stations and future expansion plans.

Commemorating the International Firefighters’ Day 2026

The official programme featured a ceremonial parade; a wreath-laying ceremony in memory of firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty; a minute of silence observed nationwide across fire stations; as well as a demonstration by newly enlisted recruits showcasing their training and operational readiness.

The Fire Safety and Emergency Preparedness Campaign 2026

The campaign aims at reducing risks within communities through targeted educational and preventive interventions, including awareness on home fire safety, disaster preparedness, basic safety when working at height and basic life support skills.

04 May 2026

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