KOUGA – Senior firefighter, Sibongile Tshali, and firefighter, Jermaine Groep, are among those who keep Kouga residents safe, responding to fires, road accidents, rescue operations and community education campaigns. Both describe the work as more than a job.
For Tshali, becoming a firefighter was a long-held ambition. He first joined Kouga Fire and Rescue Services as a retainer firefighter in 2005 before leaving to work as a truck driver to support his family.
“I always dreamed of being a firefighter,” he said. “After a few years, I returned to the fire service. I earned only R1,100 a month, but the salary did not matter because this was my calling.”
He secured a permanent appointment in 2015 and was later promoted to Senior Firefighter. “I am blessed to serve in this position and am currently the only black Senior Firefighter in Kouga,” he said.
For Groep, the desire to serve others was sparked by a childhood experience. “When I was about 12 years old, we visited my uncle in Cape Town, and a house in his street caught fire. Watching the firefighters inspired me to make a difference in people’s lives.”
His career began in Kariega before he joined Kouga Fire and Rescue Services. Each shift begins with a handover from the previous crew, followed by planning sessions and training exercises.
“We sharpen our skills because we never know what awaits us during a shift,” Groep said. “We also conduct community awareness campaigns at schools and in neighbourhoods, teaching residents about fire prevention and how to contact us during emergencies.”
Before responding to any call, firefighters inspect every vehicle and piece of equipment to ensure readiness.
The work comes with notable challenges. Tshali points to the layout of many informal settlements as a significant obstacle. “Many shacks are built so close together that our vehicles cannot reach them. Some are built beneath power lines or around fire hydrants, creating serious safety risks.”
Misinformation is another concern. “Some people believe that if they deliberately burn their shacks, they will receive money from SASSA. That is completely false. Many residents also do not know the emergency number for the fire department or that they must give way to emergency vehicles.”
Despite these challenges, Groep finds the work fulfilling. “When I drive in my uniform, and children wave or people say positive things, it reminds me why I do this job. We communicate well, work as a team, and that motivates me.”
Reflecting on the fires that affected Kouga in January 2026, Tshali said the experience was demanding. “It wasn’t easy, but when you see people who stand to lose everything, you keep pushing forward. Seeing your teammates continue gives you strength.”
The response from the community was meaningful. “After seven or eight days of fighting fires, seeing messages of thanks and hearing people pray for us by name was emotional.”
Both firefighters have a message for residents. “We are here to help,” said Groep. “During our awareness campaigns, we teach residents how to contact us directly. Sometimes people say we arrived late, but they first called SAPS, who then had to contact us. Calling the fire department directly saves valuable time.”
Tshali urged residents to help protect emergency personnel and infrastructure. “When we respond to incidents in the early hours of the morning, please support us and do not steal our equipment. Fire hydrants must also remain accessible. Communities should educate themselves about safe building practices because fire hydrants are essential for saving lives and property.”
The Kouga Fire Department can be reached by dialling 112 (from a cell phone) or 042 291 0250 in an emergency.
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