From Neu-Ulm to Bukoba: How Team works! Facilitates Knowledge Exchange in Everyday Firefighting
For six weeks, Baraka, a firefighter from Tanzania, gained insight into everyday firefighting operations in Germany while enriching the team in Neu-Ulm with his experience in managing scarce resources. In this interview, Christian Hagedorn from the European Fire & Rescue Support Association explains how Team works! promotes genuine exchange on equal terms and creates lasting momentum for both sides.
How did it come about that you took on Baraka, a young expert from Tanzania, for a Team works! internship with you?
Our aid organization, the European Fire & Rescue Support Association, has been actively involved in East Africa for quite some time. We train emergency responders on-site and support the development of rescue services and fire department structures with equipment and supplies from Germany. Since many fire departments there suffer from a severe shortage of equipment and often have only a single operational vehicle, we wanted to take the training to a new level. Through Team works!, we were able to give Baraka the opportunity to learn about German equipment and tactics firsthand during six weeks of active duty at a German fire station.
What were your expectations for this collaboration?
Our expectation was a genuine, practical exchange of knowledge among equals. Baraka was to receive intensive training with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department—particularly in tactical areas, such as firefighting methods that conserve water and resources. From the very beginning, the goal was to create a multiplier effect: Baraka was to return as an instructor to pass on his newly acquired knowledge to other colleagues in his home country, thereby contributing to a lasting improvement in safety there.
What skills, knowledge, or experience did the young expert Baraka bring to the table that benefited you and your colleagues?
Baraka impressed us all with his incredible ability to improvise, his resilience, and his deep sense of calling as a full-time firefighter. In Tanzania, there is often no comprehensive network of fire hydrants—when the water in the fire truck runs out, you sometimes have to drive half an hour to the nearest water source while the fire continues to burn. This completely different reality and Baraka’s structured approach under conditions of extreme scarcity really grounded us. It sharpened our awareness of how important flexibility, camaraderie, and a focus on the essentials are during operations.
Why is it worthwhile to be open to international cooperation and intercultural exchange?
Rescue knows no borders—camaraderie unites us worldwide. Intercultural exchange breaks down prejudices on both sides and greatly broadens one’s horizons. You learn to appreciate your own privileges and the high-tech equipment available here in a whole new light. At the same time, you see the passion and professionalism with which our colleagues in Tanzania work, despite difficult conditions. This mutual respect creates an incredibly strong bond.
What would you say to other organizations and companies considering offering similar exchange programmes?
Definitely do it! The organizational effort is more than offset by the enormous personal and professional benefits for the entire team. It brings a breath of fresh air to the office or company, strengthens team spirit, and shows employees that the company or organization thinks outside the box and takes social responsibility. Thanks to offers like the AGYO, you also receive excellent support in implementing the programme.
Is there a situation that will stay with you in particular?
There are two moments that will stay with me in particular. The first was the sheer amazement in Baraka’s eyes when he saw the extensive technical equipment for the first time, especially at the volunteer fire department. Seeing how much sophisticated technology is operated here by volunteers was absolutely fascinating to him.
The second moment was more of a culinary nature: On the very first evening, we went out for a kebab together. For Baraka, it was a total culture shock—but one that everyone involved ended up loving! These casual moments around the table are simply the quickest way to bond.
Would you take in a young African expert again?
A resounding yes! The internship was an absolute success and generated extremely positive momentum both here and on the ground in Tanzania. In Bukoba, a new fire station modeled after the German system has since been built, and we are currently establishing a volunteer fire department in the region. That is exactly why we are already planning the next internship for a young Tanzanian firefighter, this time in cooperation with another professional and volunteer fire department in Germany.
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Entry in the Golden Book of the City of Freren. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department. -
Baraka's arrival in Neu-Ulm. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department.
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Entry in the Golden Book of the City of Freren. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department. -
Baraka's arrival in Neu-Ulm. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department. -
Work with the Neu-Ulm Fire Department.