Mathew Masinge
THE campaign to promote environmental conservation and curb veld fires gathered momentum recently when hundreds of participants took part in a Fire Awareness Walk at Chimanimani’s popular Pork Pie and Bridal Veil Falls.
Organised by Timcon Africa and Allied Timbers Zimbabwe, the initiative brought together community members, environmental stakeholders and outdoor enthusiasts in a campaign to encourage responsible environmental stewardship ahead of the peak fire season.
The awareness walk was facilitated by Tapihwa Chitombo through his Taps Studios, who led participants through the scenic route while emphasising the importance of protecting Zimbabwe’s forests, mountains and biodiversity from the devastating effects of veld fires.
Participants also received education on fire prevention, environmental conservation and the need for communities to play an active role in safeguarding natural resources.
The organisers said the campaign forms part of broader efforts to promote sustainable tourism while raising awareness about the dangers posed by careless handling of fire in environmentally sensitive areas.
The Fire Awareness Walk follows a series of public awareness initiatives being rolled out by Timcon Africa and Allied Timbers Zimbabwe across Manicaland as the companies seek to strengthen community participation in preventing veld fires.
Recently, the two companies organised a major Fire Awareness March at Chako Business Centre in Chipinge under the theme “Stop the Fire Before It Starts.”
The campaign attracted hundreds of residents, schoolchildren, government departments and environmental organisations in a united effort to protect Zimbabwe’s timber plantations and natural ecosystems from destructive veld fires.
Addressing participants during the Chipinge event, Allied Timbers Zimbabwe chief executive Remigio Nenzou said safeguarding Manicaland’s forests was essential for sustaining the country’s timber industry.
He said the company had invested significantly in firefighting equipment, fireguards and other preventive measures, while calling for stronger community partnerships to protect the province’s forests.
Timcon Africa chief executive Gift Mahlupeka also stressed that collaboration between business, government and local communities remained key to reducing fire-related losses and preserving the country’s flora and fauna for future generations.
The Chipinge campaign also featured entertainment performances by Inyanga-based Zimdancehall artistes Flexibility and Diix, using music as a platform to reinforce fire prevention messages.
Through the ongoing awareness campaigns, Timcon Africa and Allied Timbers Zimbabwe continue to promote environmental responsibility while encouraging communities to take ownership of protecting Zimbabwe’s forests, wildlife habitats and tourism destinations from the devastating impact of veld fires.
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter