July 07, 2025

Of interest … Africa Fire Mission

Excerpts from the ChicagoTribune.com:

Many firefighters in and around Nairobi, Kenya, are now equipped with gear that bears the name of the Chicago Fire Department. This is thanks to a recent initiative by a group of U.S. firefighters who traveled to Kenya for a two-week training seminar as part of the nonprofit Africa Fire Mission. The trip, which took place in December, brought together over 250 firefighters from across the region.

Hank Clemmensen, a retired firefighter from the U.S., was one of the participants. He and 13 other firefighters from different parts of the country returned home after sharing their expertise during the event. Clemmensen also served as a speaker at the seminar, addressing leadership strategies for about 25 fire chiefs from surrounding areas. Topics included how to engage with local politicians and community leaders to improve emergency response efforts.

David Moore Jr., the founder and executive director of Africa Fire Mission, has been instrumental in organizing these trips. A former firefighter from Ohio, Moore started the organization after visiting Africa with Mission of Hope International. He saw firsthand the challenges faced by local fire departments, many of which lacked even basic equipment. Today, Africa Fire Mission has around 30 active volunteers, and the focus has shifted to providing hands-on training rather than just donating materials.

"A lot of donations end up unused because people don’t know how to operate them, especially when the manuals are in a different language," said Clemmensen. "That’s why we emphasize training — it makes the donations more meaningful."

Moore credits Clemmensen and Lt. Brooks Watson of the Chicago Fire Department for the recent donation of protective gear. He explained that U.S. fire departments have strict procedures before they can send equipment abroad, ensuring it meets safety standards and isn't outdated. Since most fire equipment is only used for about 10 years, proper documentation is required before it can be shipped overseas.

Historically, Nairobi had limited firefighting resources. For years, there was only one fire truck in the area, stationed at the airport to reassure international travelers. Many embassies and large companies maintained their own private fire response teams, leaving the general population with little protection.

Clemmensen highlighted the risks faced by the one million residents living in five major slums. These communities are made up of small, makeshift homes constructed from scrap materials, making them highly vulnerable to fires. With better training and equipment, organizations like Africa Fire Mission hope to change that.

Some participants in Africa Fire Mission's December training near Nairobi, Kenya, wore protective gear donated by the Chicago Fire Department. (Africa Fire Mission photo)

Some participants in Africa Fire Mission’s December training near Nairobi, Kenya, wore protective gear donated by the Chicago Fire Department. (Africa Fire Mission photo)

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