By Fanuel Chinowaita
MUTARE, 13 Sep. 25 – The City of Mutare, in partnership with Manicaland State University of Applied Sciences (MSUAS), on Thursday launched Zimbabwe’s first Institute of Civil Protection at an event held at Queens Club, setting a new benchmark in emergency response and disaster risk management.
The high-profile programme was attended by mayors and councillors from several cities across Zimbabwe, underscoring the national significance of the initiative.
Speaking at the launch, Mutare Mayor Simon Chabuka said the institute would play a critical role in strengthening the city’s and nation’s disaster preparedness.
“As local authorities, we have a critical role to play in ensuring the safety of our citizens. This institute is a key step as it offers a comprehensive chain of capacity-building programmes, giving our workers the knowledge and skills to respond to emergencies and disasters. By enrolling employees, this reduces disasters. I encourage you to take advantage of this programme,” he said.
Town Clerk Blessing Chafesuka highlighted the impact of the brain drain on Zimbabwe’s firefighting capacity, revealing that the country has lost over 1,200 firefighters to better-paying jobs abroad since 2012.
“Mutare alone loses an average of six firefighters a year. This year alone, we have already lost five, and we may lose more. This collaboration will also involve Belarus University and is a game changer for skills retention,” Chafesuka said.
He added that from January to September 2025, the city responded to 131 fires and 29 road traffic accidents. Mutare currently has two fire stations—one in Dangamvura and another in the Central Business District near the High Court—with plans to open a third in Chikanga.
MSUAS representative Dr. Nyamunda said the institute would combine academic knowledge and practical training to produce a new generation of problem-solving professionals.
“We will bring in knowledge, skills, and innovation for tomorrow’s civil protection. Our graduates must be unique, ready to serve communities that face increasing emergencies. Requirements include five O-Levels with Mathematics, English, and a Science subject. Candidates must be physically fit and undergo medical, mental, and physical tests,” Dr. Nyamunda explained.
The one-year Certificate in Fire Science and Civil Protection is already open for enrolment, while future programmes in Fire Engineering Sciences and Disaster Risk Management are in the pipeline. Graduates can pursue careers as firefighters, fire inspectors, safety and rescue managers, and disaster response officers.
Authorities said the institute would help retain skills, build capacity, enhance public safety, and open regional collaboration. With Zimbabwe’s only multi-purpose motorised fire ladder and a fleet of seven modern fire trucks, Mutare has already cut response times from 24 minutes to 8 minutes, setting a national benchmark in civil protection.
Officials emphasised that the institute is not just a Mutare initiative but a national model for the future of civil protection in Zimbabwe.
