The Caretaker Minister of Interior, Rizik Zachariah Hassan, has expressed concerns over the severe equipment shortages facing the Civil Defence Service in South Sudan. During a visit to the South Sudan Civil Defence Service headquarters, Hassan revealed that the entire capital, Juba, currently has only two firefighting vehicles. This shortage poses a significant challenge to the city's ability to respond effectively to fires and other emergencies.
Hassan emphasized that the ministry will focus on strengthening the Civil Defence Service ahead of the planned elections. The service plays a crucial role in protecting the lives and property of civilians and government institutions. The minister acknowledged the importance of the Civil Defence Service in maintaining public safety and urged his team to work towards implementing necessary reforms.
Caretaker Deputy Minister of Interior, David Marial Gumke, also highlighted the challenges facing the Civil Defence Service. He cited a shortage of vehicles for transporting senior officers and issues related to uniforms. Gumke noted that the service needs to standardize uniforms, as different types are currently being used. This lack of standardization can create confusion and undermine the service's effectiveness.
Inspector General of Police, Gen. Said Chawul, stressed the importance of unity between the police and civil defence services. He emphasized that Civil Defence is part of the police and should work closely with other police units to protect people and property. Gen. Chawul highlighted the need for collaboration between the two institutions to maintain public safety.
The Commissioner General of the South Sudan Civil Defence Service, General Roden Loro, explained that the minister's visit aimed to assess the challenges facing the service. Loro added that the Ministry of Interior, which includes the Civil Defence Service, bears responsibility for the upcoming elections. The service's role in maintaining public safety during this period is crucial.
The equipment shortages facing the Civil Defence Service have significant implications for public safety in Juba. With only two operational firefighting vehicles, the city is severely vulnerable to fire-related emergencies. The Ministry of Interior's efforts to strengthen the Civil Defence Service are critical to addressing these challenges and ensuring public safety.
The situation highlights the need for urgent attention to address the equipment shortages and other challenges facing the Civil Defence Service. The upcoming elections add to the urgency of the situation, as the service's role in maintaining public safety will be critical during this period.
Key points
- The capital, Juba, has only two operational firefighting vehicles.
- The Ministry of Interior will focus on strengthening the Civil Defence Service ahead of the planned elections.
- The equipment shortages have significant implications for public safety in Juba.
