RTC buys fire engine

THE emotive issue of fire in Rusape will next month come to an end when the local authority takes delivery of a state-of-the-art fire engine acquired from Britain at cost of 25 000 pounds.

Rusape has been operating without a fire tender, a situation that led to a number of buildings and properties being reduced to ashes during infernos.

Since 2012, Rusape has managed to acquire vital equipment and machinery such as refuse compactor, Front End Loader, two tractors, dumper truck, service and management vehicles and they have floated tenders for a grader and tipper to be acquired this year.

Town Secretary, Mr Joshua Maligwa, who has been superintending the rebirth of the town since joining the institution in 2012, said the fire engine which is duty free would be ready for collection at Walis Bay Port in Namibia before March 18.

Mr Maligwa said his council saw it prudent to purchase the engine as they were gearing up for municipal status.

“Rusape Town Council is pleased to announce to its residents and other esteemed stakeholders that the fire tender everyone was clamouring for is on its way from Britain.

“The fire engine has a carrying capacity of 10 000 litres and we forked 25 000 British pounds. We purchased it from Draphes Consulting Engines were also sister municipalities Bulawayo and Kwekwe got theirs from.

“This is a quite an achievement for our town. We like to thank residents who are honouring their obligations to council and encourage those who are not to do so. At Rusape Town Council, we make sure that every cent is directed on services that impact on the lives of residents,” said Mr Maligwa.