Brümilda Swartbooi
“I, Andries Mucavele, solely undertake to serve my city with loyalty, courage, dignity, and honour. I will perform my duties with zeal and diligence and set a good example to all those under my command. I hereby formally take over command of the City of Johannesburg.”
These were the words of the newly appointed fire chief in the City of Johannesburg’s Emergency Management Service (EMS) department during a swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, 27 June 2024.
The ceremony was held at the Florida Fire Station and attended by dignitaries including Executive Mayor, Councillor Kabelo Gwamanda, Member of Mayoral Committee for Public Safety Cllr Mgcini Tshwaku, City Manager Floyd Brink, and Group Chief Financial Officer Tebogo Moraka.
The ceremony started with a parade, followed by a final parade inspection by the former chief Tshepo Makola, who is currently the City’s Chief Operations Officer.
MMC Tshwaku officially welcomed Mucavele. “We recognise the dedication and expertise the chief brings to this role. We’re confident in his ability to steer our emergency services towards a brighter future.
“Chief, as you start your journey today, there will be expectations from colleagues and the community. We are acutely aware of the challenges that confront EMS. Budget constraints have stretched our resources very thin, limiting our capacity to respond swiftly to emergencies. Chief, know that you do not face these challenges alone. You have our full support as a political office and mine as MMC of Public Safety,” Cllr Tshwaku added.
He commended Mucavele’s ethics and said that amidst many challenges, he came in with professionalism and stabilised the department.
Cllr Tshwaku encouraged Mucavele to seek guidance and wisdom from God in whatever challenge he faces. “It is not a coincidence that you’re in this position. Your experience and agility have shown that you’re more than capable, and we wish you well. On behalf of the department, we welcome you as the newly appointed chief of fire.”
Mayor Gwamanda said he is confident in Mucavele’s ability to lead EMS. “As a city, we have highly competent and capable leaders across our entities. Now we have a capable chief. I’m confident in your ability to lead your department with commitment and dedication.”
Mucavele has a qualification in fire technology and over two decades of experience in EMS. He started his career as a firefighter and worked his way up the ranks. He has held roles such as Division Chief, Director of Operations, and now Chief of EMS.
“I am excited and delighted to accept the command of CoJ EMS. The city has always been one of the biggest and leading EMS in the world. I am grateful and humbled to be afforded an opportunity to join the leading team of senior managers within the city as chief fire officer,” said an elated Mucavele.
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