Calumbo:Angolan Interior Minister Manuel Homem and Icolo e Bengo Provincial Governor Auzílio Jacob inaugurated the new National School of Civil Protection and Firefighting (ENPCB) on Monday. Located in Calumbo, the facility was constructed from scratch and spans 22,000 square meters.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the ENPCB includes six classrooms with a capacity for 750 trainees, a medical center, a large parade ground, a five-story multi-purpose tower, and accommodation for both male and female trainees. The project, completed in nine months by Gemcorp at a cost of 5.6 billion kwanzas, also features two canteens, administrative offices, a library, a car park, and a sports ground.
Interior Minister Homem highlighted that the new facilities represent a significant advancement in training and professional development for Angola’s Civil Protection and Fire Service personnel. The school is designed to serve not only the fire service but also businesses, especially those requiring civil protection and firefighting services such as companies in the oil and diamond sectors.
The minister also noted the school's potential to offer specialized training to other Southern African countries. Courses at the institution range from 45 days to six months, depending on specializations. Future expansions of the project are expected to introduce new training areas such as lifeguard training.
Minister Homem also addressed ongoing operational challenges due to outdated equipment, assuring that the government is actively working to resolve these issues. On the occasion, he delivered 23 new technical and operational assets, including fire engines, rescue vehicles, and vessels, to enhance the service's capabilities.
Chief Fire Officer Bravo Pereira Mendes stated that the ENPCB will become Angola's primary training center for firefighters, focusing on the protection of people and national heritage. Established 43 years ago, the school plays a key role in training and professional development within the Civil Protection and Fire Service in Angola.
