By Alfred Chauwa
United States of America (USA) based Pastor Wes Gun who is also Patron of Chikondi Health Foundation (CHF) has donated a fire engine to Airport Development Limited (ADL).
Speaking during the handover ceremony which took place at Kamuzu International Airport (KIA) Gunn emphasized the critical role of fire trucks at airports, noting that without them, airplanes cannot land safely.
Gun highlights the growing need for such
equipment in Malawi as the country sees
an increase in tourist arrivals.
Gun said the value of the donated fire truck is underscored, not just for its immediate
utility but also for its potential to save
lives in case of accidents.
“This truck will complement the existing
equipment provided by the government
of Malawi and Airport Development
Limited (ADL) at the Kamuzu International
Airport,” he said.
Gun says this is the first
time they have sent a fire truck to
Malawi, having previously donated
medical equipment, tractors, and other
supplies to Malawi.
He expresses hope that this will not be
the last time they donate fire trucks, as
there is often surplus equipment in the
United States that can be shared.
Wes Gun also mentioned possibility
of providing training for Malawian
firefighters in the future, sharing expertise
in firefighting and hazmat operations.
Receiving the Donation, Technical Director in the Ministry of Transport and public works , Fergus Gondwe commended Gun for the timely donation.
Gondwe described the donation as another important milestone in the growth of aviation sector.
“The official handover of a fire truck generously donated to Ministry of Transport and Public Works through Airport Developments Limited by Pastor Gun, will enhance emergency response capacity,” he said.
Gondwe said the function demonstrates celebration of partnership, goodwill, and shared commitment to improving aviation safety in the country.
“Safety is the backbone of aviation, and the addition of this fire truck to our fleet will significantly strengthen the emergency response capacity of Kamuzu International Airport, KIA,” he said.
This donation will help ensure that KIA continues to meet and maintain the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requirements for Category 9 Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Services, a critical standard for airports handling large commercial aircrafts.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and gentlemen, this donation comes at a time when Ministry of Transport and Public Works through ADL continues to modernize airport infrastructure and strengthen safety systems across the country, from Kamuzu International Airport, Chileka International Airport and to regional airports like Mzuzu and Karonga. At regional airports such as Mzuzu and Karonga, we are implementing upgrades that will soon allow for full commercial operations. Each improvement, including this one, contributes to Malawi’s broader vision of enhanced air connectivity, tourism growth, and economic transformation.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to take this moment to extend our deepest appreciation to Pastor Gun, and maybe some of you here may not be aware, he is a fire fighter by profession.
Sir, your generous gesture speaks volumes about your passion for aviation safety and your spirit of service.
As a firefighter yourself, you understand better than anyone the value of well-equipped emergency response teams.
Through this donation, you have made a lasting contribution to the safety of thousands of travelers who pass through our airports every year. On behalf of Ministry of Transport and Public Works, Airport Developments Limited, and indeed on behalf of the people of Malawi, we say thank you. Your act of generosity will not only enhance our capacity but will also inspire others to play their part in strengthening our aviation sector.
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and gentlemen, as we receive and commission this fire truck today, we reaffirm our commitment to maintaining safe, reliable, and efficient airport operations across all our facilities.
Together with partners like Pastor Gun and the continued support of the Government of Malawi, we are building safer skies for our nation.
Thank you, and may this donation serve as a beacon of cooperation, generosity, and progress for Malawi’s aviation industry.
