A day in the life of Kouga’s firefighters
Every day, senior firefighter Sibongile Tshali and firefighter Jermaine Groep answer the call to protect the people of Kouga. Whether battling devastating fires, responding to road accidents and rescue operations, or educating communities about fire safety, their work demands courage, resilience, and steadfast commitment. Faced with dangerous conditions, staff shortages, and unpredictable emergencies, they continue to serve with determination and compassion, proving that firefighting is more than a job – it is a calling.
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KOUGA – Whether battling raging wildfires, responding to devastating floods, rescuing trapped residents, or educating communities about fire safety, senior firefighter Sibongile Tshali and firefighter Jermaine Groep stand ready to protect lives and property at a moment’s notice.
For them the profession is far more than a job – it is a calling rooted in passion, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to serving the people of Kouga. Their stories offer a glimpse into the challenges, rewards, and extraordinary resilience required to wear the uniform of a firefighter.
For Tshali, becoming a firefighter was a lifelong dream. He first joined Kouga Fire and Rescue Services as a retainer firefighter in 2005 before returning to Loerie to work as a truck driver to help support his parents.
“I always dreamed of being a firefighter,” he recalled. “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.”
His perseverance paid off in 2015 when he secured a permanent appointment 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 proudly.
For Groep, the desire to serve others was sparked by an unforgettable 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, where no two days are ever the same.
Each shift begins with a handover from the previous crew, followed by planning sessions and intensive training exercises.
“We sharpen our skills because we never know what awaits us during a shift,” Groep explained. “We also conduct community awareness campaigns at schools and in neighbourhoods, teaching residents about fire prevention and how to contact us quickly during emergencies.”
Before responding to a single call, firefighters carefully inspect every vehicle and piece of equipment to ensure they are ready for whatever emergency may arise.
While deeply rewarding, the profession comes with significant challenges. Tshali says the layout of many informal settlements often complicate emergency responses.
“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.”
He is equally concerned about misinformation within communities.
“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.”
Illegal structures built on dumping sites create further difficulties.
“When fires start there, they can take days to extinguish.”
Despite these obstacles, Groep says the job remains incredibly fulfilling.
“My mother motivates me every day. She was extremely ill during Covid-19 and spent six months in a coma. She still suffers the effects, yet she gets up every day and goes to work.”
Serving the community gives him a profound sense of purpose.
“When I drive in my uniform and children wave or people say positive things, it reminds me why I do this job. I also enjoy working with my colleagues. We communicate well, work as a team, and that motivates me. I come to work smiling and go home smiling.”
Reflecting on the devastating fires that swept through Kouga in January 2026, Tshali said the experience tested every firefighter’s resolve.
“It wasn’t easy, but when you see people who stand to lose everything, you keep pushing forward. There are moments when your body wants to give up, but seeing your teammates continue gives you strength.”
The gratitude shown by the community made every sacrifice worthwhile.
“After seven or eight days of fighting fires, seeing messages of thanks and hearing people pray for us by name was incredibly emotional.”
Yet the work never stops.
“After the fires came the floods. There is always another emergency waiting – a snake removal, a trapped resident, a vehicle accident. We are still recovering from one traumatic incident when we are called to another.”
Both firefighters have an important message for the people of Kouga.
“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 critical 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. In some areas, structures have been built around them, preventing us from accessing water during emergencies. 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 dialing 112 (cell phone) or 042 291 0250 in an emergency.
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