MILLICENT HUNGWE
As the sun beats down on the parched earth, the threat of veld fires looms large over Zimbabwe’s landscape, the second week of May marks the official start of veld fire prevention by Environmental Management Agency.
Every year, these devastating infernos ravage vast tracts of land, leaving a trail of permanent destruction in their wake.
Last year the country recorded 925,139.9 hectares that were burnt from 4,355 fire incidents reported when the fire season began representing a 19.28% increase in land loss compared to 2023.
Regrettably, three lives were lost to veld fires in 2024, a 66-year-old woman in Chipinge, Manicaland, a 71-year-old woman in Mhondoro Ngezi, Mashonaland West and a 55-year-old disabled man in Makoni, Manicaland.
According to EMA Spokesperson Amkela Sidange, property losses amounted to US$327,472, affecting key economic sectors such as agriculture, tourism, plantations, and communication and furthermore, 25 dockets were opened for fire-related offenses last year.
Sidange said, “the impact is felt across agriculture, wildlife, and forests, threatening the very fabric of the country’s ecosystem.”
In response to this pressing issue, the nation comes together each year for the National Fire Week Launch, marking the official start of the veld fire prevention campaign.
This year’s theme is “Protect Our Environment!”
The Mid-week Watch confirmed that it starts with small actions that can have a significant impact, by avoiding uncontrolled burning and reporting illegal fires, you can help prevent the spread of veld fires.
Sidange stated that, we must work together to safeguard our land, our wildlife, and our future, putting clearing fireguards around fields and properties to protect your community.
Reducing biomass through initiatives like hay baling and thatch grass combing not only helps to mitigate fire risks but also provides opportunities for income generation.
Education is key in this fight against veld fires, by sharing fire prevention tips with your neighbors and community, you can help spread awareness and promote a culture of safety, The Mid-week Watch has learnt.
Supporting local fire management efforts is also vital, as teamwork can literally save lives and land.
The battle against veld fires requires a unified effort from the government, the private sector, farmers, and communities.
With above-normal rains this year, the risk of veld fires is higher than ever, making it imperative that stakeholders work together towards a common goal of zero tolerance to these devastating fires.
