A fascinating story is unfolding in Nairobi, Kenya, where firefighters are using gear labeled with the name of the Chicago Fire Department. This isn’t a coincidence — it’s the result of an ongoing effort by volunteers from the U.S. to support local emergency services in Africa.

Hank Clemmensen, along with 13 other firefighters from across the United States, recently returned from a two-week trip to Kenya. During their visit, they participated in an annual training seminar organized by Africa Fire Mission, a nonprofit dedicated to improving fire safety and response in African countries. The event drew over 250 firefighters, showcasing the growing impact of this initiative.

Clemmensen, who has a long history in firefighting, was invited to speak on leadership topics for about 25 fire chiefs from surrounding areas. His session focused on how to engage with politicians and community leaders — essential skills for effective emergency management.

David Moore Jr., founder and executive director of Africa Fire Mission, shared the origin of the organization. He started it after visiting Africa as part of Mission of Hope International and witnessing the challenging living conditions. Today, the group has around 30 active members and focuses heavily on training due to the high cost of shipping equipment across the ocean.

“A lot of donations end up unused because people don’t know how to use them,” Clemmensen explained. “Especially when the manuals are in a different language.”

Moore credited Clemmensen and Lt. Brooks Watson of the Chicago Fire Department for recent equipment donations. He noted that U.S. fire departments require extensive documentation before allowing any gear to be shipped overseas, ensuring compliance with regulations that limit the use of equipment after ten years of service.

Historically, Nairobi had only one fire truck, stationed at the airport to reassure international travelers. Many embassies and large companies maintained their own private fire response teams. But now, the focus is shifting toward supporting the most vulnerable communities — especially the one million residents living in five slums, where homes are often made of scrap materials and lack proper safety infrastructure.

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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