EMA urges people to guard against veld fires

Mutsawashe Mashandure

Herald Correspondent

The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has urged farmers and land owners to put in place fire suppression measures since the country is now in the fire restriction period, which began on July 1.
The country has so far recorded a decrease in veld fire incidents when compared to the same period last year.

This year, a total of 47 fire incidents, which resulted in 43 843 hectares of vegetation being burned, have been reported across the country.

A total of 206 veld fire incidents that burned 54 971 hectares were recorded during the same period last year.

EMA environmental education and publicity manager, Ms Amkela Sidange said the veld fire restriction period had been extended to accommodate shifts in seasonal patterns.

“The country has been experiencing veld fires and associated losses outside the stipulated statutory period owing to mainly seasonal shifts associated with climate change,” she said.

“This has been exhibited by the late onset and premature end of the rainy season, resulting in a lengthy dry season that leaves the country vulnerable to veld fires.

“Since 2022, the country has adopted different fire restriction periods to accommodate the shifts in seasons and glaring impacts of climate change.”

Sadly, one fatality was recorded this year due to veld fires.

“The agency would like to express its sincere condolences to the bereaved family. One life lost is one too many.

“We encourage the public to be alert all the time and prevent the onset of veld fires. Fires should be prevented before we lose more lives, property, and priceless environmental goods and services,” she said.