Viongozi katika Greater Nebbi Wanadai Kuundwa kwa Kitengo cha Kikosi cha Zimamoto Ili Kushughulikia Hatari Zinazoongezeka za Moto

Leaders in Greater Nebbi are calling for the establishment of a local fire brigade unit to address the growing fire risks in the region, following the devastating fire that recently destroyed Garamba Produce Stores in Nebbi Municipality's Rock View Cell. 

The fire resulted in millions of shillings in damages, prompting concern among local leaders and the business community.Agness Acibu, the Woman Member of Parliament for Nebbi District, has emphasized the need for urgent action. She pointed out that the only fire-fighting truck serving the entire region is stationed in Arua, 78 kilometers away.

 Acibu advocates for a local fire brigade unit to be based in Nebbi District, which would serve Nebbi, Pakwach, Zombo, and Madi-Okollo Districts. This would ensure a quicker response to emergencies and reduce the risk of extensive damage from fires."Greater Nebbi districts have booming border points that are at risk in the event of a fire outbreak. 

The government should consider establishing a fire brigade unit to reduce these high risks," Acibu stated.The call for a fire brigade unit is echoed by local businessman Robert Anecho, who lamented the detrimental impact of the region's lack of firefighting services. 

Anecho recalled a 2021 incident at Goli Customs, where a fuel tanker burst into flames, destroying two vehicles and five houses while waiting for clearance. He pointed out that the absence of a local fire brigade unit makes it challenging for businesses to mitigate fire risks.

"The business community faces significant challenges in minimizing fire risks because the nearest fire brigade is in Arua City, making it difficult to respond to emergencies in a timely manner," Anecho said.

Onega Innocent, LC III Chairperson of Paidha Town Council, also highlighted the increasing need for firefighting services, given the growing population and number of buildings in towns. He emphasized that firefighting services are essential to reduce the risks of house fires and protect local businesses and farmers, especially those with coffee stores that rely on electricity.

"A fire brigade unit is necessary because farmers have coffee stores that use electricity, and having a fire brigade nearby would help address fire emergencies," Onega explained.

In response, Collins Asea, the Police Public Relations Officer for the West Nile region, confirmed that discussions regarding the creation of a fire brigade unit for Greater Nebbi are underway at Police Headquarters in Naguru, Kampala. 

He assured the public that once approved, the fire brigade unit will serve the entire Greater Nebbi region, including Madi-Okollo District, which is currently without a fire response network.

"The creation of a fire brigade unit for Greater Nebbi is being handled at the police headquarters, and district leaders will soon be notified of new developments to help curb the alarming risks of fire outbreaks," Asea said.

As leaders continue to push for the establishment of a fire brigade unit, the call for prompt government action remains urgent, with residents and businesses in Greater Nebbi hoping for a solution that will better protect their communities from fire-related disasters.