The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality has unveiled a new safety and security fleet valued at R16.1 million, aimed at strengthening crime prevention, emergency response, and disaster management across the metro.
The launch, led by Executive Mayor Babalwa Lobishe and Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Safety and Security Luyanda Lawu forms part of a broader capital investment exceeding R43 million, dedicated to strengthening frontline safety services.
The newly unveiled fleet includes 20 vehicles already delivered and deployed across Metro Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Traffic and Licensing, Security Services and Disaster Management units. The allocation is intended to improve operational visibility, coordination, and rapid response capability.
The fleet includes two Metro Police vehicles valued at R555 600; fire services assets featuring two delivered fire tankers with two additional units pending, together valued at R7.9 million, and traffic and licensing vehicles, including a VW Transporter, a Mercedes Fuso breakdown truck, and two Toyota bakkies valued at R4.45 million. Security services vehicles account for R3.13 million, while three disaster management vehicles are valued at R1.75 million.
In addition, communication equipment worth R4.7 million has already been delivered, with a further R4.1 million in equipment expected to strengthen coordination across safety services.
The municipality is also awaiting the delivery of specialised firefighting vehicles valued at R27 million, including a rescue pump and hydraulic platform, which are expected to significantly enhance advanced emergency response capabilities.
Lobishe said the investment forms part of a targeted programme to improve frontline service delivery, particularly in response to crime, fires, and disaster incidents, following public concern over the condition of Fire and Emergency Services.
"This investment is firmly aligned to the priorities of the 7th Administration, building a capable and ethical state, driving inclusive economic growth, and improving the quality of life of our people. It is equally aligned to the Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan priorities, particularly strengthening basic service delivery, building safer communities, and positioning Nelson Mandela Bay as a competitive and investable city.
“At its core, this is an investment in people’s safety, dignity, and confidence in government. A safer city is a more liveable city, and a more investable city. Through this intervention, we are strengthening our ability to respond effectively, protect communities, and support an environment where both residents and businesses can thrive,” Lobishe said.
Lawu said the investment significantly strengthens the responsiveness of the Safety and Security Directorate across law enforcement, crime prevention, fire and emergency services, security operations, and disaster management.
“It enhances our ability to respond to incidents with speed, coordination, and effectiveness. Our responsibility is clear, when communities face crime, fires, or disasters, the municipality must be equipped, present, and able to act decisively.
“These resources are therefore critical tools to ensure that response is not delayed, and that service delivery is felt directly by our communities,” Lawu said.
The municipality confirmed that the procurement of the fleet was conducted in full compliance with the Municipal Finance Management Act, underscoring its commitment to transparent, accountable, and value-driven public spending.
The metro has reaffirmed its commitment to continued investment in frontline safety services to build a more responsive, coordinated, and capable city. – SAnews.gov.za
