adminStephen Ephraem
Chief Gudo of Sangwe communal lands in Chiredzi North is concerned about the rate of deforestation and veld fires in his land.Speaking from his court about 93km north of Chiredzi town, the traditional leader is encouraging stakeholders to play a pivotal role in curbing further destruction.
Said Chief Gudo: “The rate at which trees are being cut here by villagers in the new resettlement areas is alarming. Wet firewood and charcoal are being fetched from my area to Checheche.
“We have since made efforts to stop veld fires and the wanton destruction of our trees, but our efforts are being met with hostility.
“Most of forest poachers are from Checheche in Chipinge South. They are so aggressive and violent to the extent that at one time I was threatened with a sjambok after stopping a villager ferrying firewood across Save River.
“I tried to engage Chibhememe Earth Healing Association, but they continued being notorious. We would be happy if players like EMA (Environmental Management Agency) and Forestry Commission enhance their presence to help curb the deforestation,” concluded Chief Gudo.
Contacted for a comment, the District Forestry Extension Officer for Chiredzi, Mr Bwawa, said: “We appreciate Chief Gudo’s stance towards deforestation. We have been holding awareness campaigns in the area.
“The challenge is that the main culprits who are poaching wood are not Chief Gudo’s subjects.”
Mr Joseph Mutsvaidzwa, co-ordinator of Save SAVE RIVER Project in Checheche, said: “It is true that people from Checheche are active in wood poaching.
“If one goes along the river where brick-moulding is taking place, plenty of wet wood can be seen being delivered day and night. We are conscientising villagers to use sustainable fuel sources for brick-moulding.”
EMA Chiredzi could not be reached for a comment by the time of going to print.
Online Reporter