Altezza Travel, the world’s leading operator of Kilimanjaro climbing tours, has significantly bolstered fire prevention measures at Mt. Kilimanjaro National Park. The company has equipped the park with essential firefighting tools and set up six strategically located safety containers, designed to ensure rapid response to any future fire emergencies.
Following devastating bushfires in 2020 and 2022, which saw extensive mobilization of park rangers and volunteers, Altezza Travel identified a critical delay in emergency response due to the time required to transport essential firefighting equipment. The distance from storage locations, sometimes up to 50 kilometres away, meant that vital tools such as shovels, axes, chainsaws, and medical kits could not be deployed swiftly.
To address this issue, Altezza Travel proposed and secured approval for a proactive solution: permanent safety containers stocked with firefighting equipment at key points along all major climbing routes. The initiative, which has now been implemented, aims to cut response times dramatically, ensuring that in the event of a fire, necessary equipment is readily available for immediate use.
Abraham Kipokola, a guide who played a significant role in the 2022 firefighting efforts, praised the new system. “We no longer need to worry about the gear being far away. If the park needs us, we can reach the site within an hour thanks to the new setup,” Kipokola explained. He also noted the readiness of the equipment to support volunteers who wish to assist in future emergencies. “Preparation is key. We hope fires don’t occur, but if they do, we encourage everyone working on the mountain to join in and help. The equipment will be there, and volunteers will be guided by skilled leadership.”
Kipokola emphasised that participating in firefighting efforts is an integral part of the role at Altezza Travel. “Kilimanjaro sustains our livelihood, and it’s our duty to protect it against natural hazards,” he said. With rising temperatures and increased summer pressures, Kipokola urged tourists and operators to be vigilant and take precautions to prevent fires in the iconic park.
Thomas Becker, assistant manager of Altezza Travel’s climbing team, highlighted the company’s commitment to safety training. “Firefighting bush techniques are now a mandatory part of the training for all our guides before they begin leading treks,” Becker noted. “We see each guide not just as a leader for our clients, but also as a potential captain for volunteers if a rapid response is needed.”
The new safety measures reflect Altezza Travel’s ongoing dedication to preserving the natural environment of Kilimanjaro and enhancing the safety and efficiency of emergency response efforts.