Limassol, Cyprus. Forty-five communities across Cyprus will receive small fire engines free of charge after TechIsland committed €450,000 to cover costs not financed by the government, Interior Minister Constantinos Ioannou said on Thursday.
The announcement was made at the official launch of the TechIsland Wildfire Initiative in Limassol.
Community response capacity
Ioannou said the fire engines would provide communities with a tool to respond during the critical first moments of a fire, before the Fire Service and other emergency crews arrive.
He said the Interior Ministry had increased state funding under its scheme for Community Councils to purchase small fire engines from 50 per cent to 80 per cent of the cost. Enhanced funding has so far been approved for 54 communities across Cyprus.
“The first response after a fire occurs is crucial,” Ioannou said, noting that early intervention at community level can help contain flames until firefighting forces arrive.
Initiative follows 2025 wildfire
The initiative was established after the July 23, 2025 wildfire in mountainous Limassol, which claimed lives, destroyed homes and property, affected businesses and farms, and damaged infrastructure and the natural environment.
What began as an emergency effort to support those affected has developed into a broader programme focused on restoration, prevention, early detection and community preparedness.
Ioannou said more than 60 companies and individuals mobilised within days and raised about €2 million. He described the response as a practical demonstration of social responsibility and solidarity.
Government support measures
Following the fire, the government introduced support measures for affected residents, businesses and farmers, including financial assistance to restore homes and other buildings, compensation for damaged vehicles and machinery, and repairs to critical infrastructure and water supply systems.
Flood protection measures and other projects were also promoted in affected communities.
Ioannou thanked TechIsland president Valentinos Polykarpou, the association’s board and management, the initiative committee, and the companies, donors, partners and volunteers involved. He said TechIsland is the largest association of technology companies in Cyprus.
