Leaders, residents sound alarm on devastating veld fires
Victor Sibanda
Traditional leaders in Nemananga Ward in Hwange District are raising the alarm over the increasing prevalence of veld fires.
Headman Simon Mazhanga expressed deep concern about the rampant bush burning and burning of grasslands, highlighting the devastating impact on the already fragile ecosystem.
“Our forests are burning, and dry grass meant for our livestock disappears daily,” lamented Headman Mazhanga. “These veld fires are incredibly difficult to control, and people need to understand the vital role the environment plays in our lives. We must learn to manage our natural resources sustainably. I’ve warned my subjects repeatedly about the dangers of starting these fires, as they inflict immense damage on both fauna and flora.” The Headman revealed that the fires have been gutting down vegetation, leaving a trail of destruction with vast swathes of land succumbing to the flames every week. He recently convened a crucial meeting with village heads to strategize ways to curb this “cancerous activity.”
Godfrey Ndlovu, Village Head from Sibilinda Village 5, echoed the Headman’s concerns. “The Headman has empowered us to take stricter measures against those responsible,” he explained. “The environment is burning, fields are ablaze, and we fear this could escalate to endanger property and even lives. In our view, land clearers and bee hunters are the main culprits, often leaving fires unattended, leading to uncontrollable blazes. We need to put an end to this once and for all.”
The sentiment resonated with Milos Nyathi, a resident from the Siamwele area. “We’re fed up with these reckless acts destroying our environment,” he said. “Bee hunters, careless individuals, and poachers all contribute to these veld fires. It’s unacceptable! Our livestock are left with no fodder, and the little available is being destroyed by these fires. Offenders deserve to be jailed!”
Adding his voice to the chorus of concern, an AGRITEX Officer based at Jambezi Centre, who wished to remain anonymous, urged residents to refrain from causing unnecessary fires that disrupt the delicate ecological balance. “The fire season is approaching, and the public is strongly warned against starting fires,” he emphasized. “Those found responsible risk prosecution and jail time. Veld fires not only destroy grazing land but also devastate crops in gardens. Anyone witnessing such acts should report them immediately to their local traditional leaders or the police.”
“Environmental Management Agency Hwange District Officer, Mr Ndlovu, warned that the fire season is approaching earlier than usual due to climate change. While the official fire season typically runs from July 31 to October 31, Ndlovu cautioned that the risk of fires has increased as early as May. He urged people to take necessary precautions during his remarks at the World Environment Day celebrations in Victoria Falls on Wednesday.”
The urgency to address this issue is underscored by Statutory Instrument 7 of 2007, read in conjunction with the Environmental Management Act (CAP 20:27). These regulations expressly prohibit lighting fires outside designated residential and commercial areas during Zimbabwe’s fire season, which runs from July 31st to October 31st each year.
