Chronicle Editor
Laurel Murangaridzirayi – [email protected]
UMGUZA District in Matabeleland North has been issued a stern warning by officials from the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) regarding the upcoming fire season, scheduled to commence on 31 July. With last year’s abundant rainfall, EMA predicts an increase in veld fires due to the substantial biomass accumulation throughout the year.
David Maunze, an EMA representative, highlighted the challenges faced in containing veld fires within the district, citing the expansive forests as the main contributing factor. He stressed the necessity for collaboration between communities and Government organisations to safeguard the environment and mitigate the occurrence of veld fires.
Maunze stated: “One of the biggest problems is that we have huge forests and, with such a vast landmass and abundant biomass, containment becomes exceedingly difficult. However, through unified efforts, we can strive for an environment with reduced veld fires.”
In light of these concerns, communities have been strongly encouraged to equip themselves with the necessary tools and knowledge to combat veld fires effectively. Maunze urged residents to prepare fireguards ahead of the fire season, establish firefighting teams, acquire firefighting equipment, and minimise biomass through practices such as thatch grass combing and hay baling. Additionally, any fire incidents should be promptly reported to the relevant authorities. Maunze also stressed the importance of installing fire alarm systems and taking immediate action to extinguish fires as they occur.
Over the past three years in Matabeleland North, the number of hectares affected by veld fires has steadily risen. In 2020, a total of 74 002,24 hectares were burnt, which dramatically increased to 172 215,01 hectares in 2021. Alarmingly, in 2022, this number more than doubled to a staggering 399 622,79 hectares of forest and grassland devastated by veld fires. This concerning trend jeopardises the conservation efforts outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals, as land degradation, deforestation, and desertification are accelerated by these destructive infernos.
Maunze expressed deep concern over the environmental impact of veld fires, emphasizing their role in land degradation and the depletion of natural resources.
“Veld fires pose a significant threat to the environment, leading to disasters that result in land degradation, deforestation, and the desertification of grasslands and forests within our district and the entire country,” he warned.
Veld fires claimed the lives of 18 individuals across the country last year. A staggering 5 386 fire incidents were reported nationwide, scorching an estimated 244 227,34 hectares of land.
Online Reporter