By Marshia Mutambi

MARONDERA – The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has warned that most of Mashonaland East Province falls under the extreme fire risk category during the upcoming fire season, which runs from August 1 to November 30.

The agency advised the public and farmers to desist from starting veld fires, especially outside residential and commercial premises, to safeguard property and lives.

This follows rising concerns over uncontrolled fires across the region, and EMA has outlined preventative measures, including fire guard construction, community training, and fire equip-ment preparation, to curb the threat.

Mashonaland East Environmental Manager, Juliet Mavu, emphasised that it is a criminal of-fence to start fires during the restriction period and encouraged communities to take ownership of fire prevention efforts.

“Let’s all play our part in putting out fire in the event of veld fire outbreaks in our localities,” she said.

She also cautioned tobacco farmers using fires for nursery preparation to ensure they don’t get out of hand.

In preparation, EMA is urging farmers, schools, and institutions to construct standard 9-metre fire guards around their properties and 4-metre internal fire guards.

They are also encouraged to equip themselves with fire beaters, water bowsers, and trained per-sonnel in basic firefighting techniques.
Additional strategies include developing fire alert systems, engaging in hay baling and thatch grass harvesting to reduce fuel load, and promoting beekeeping to increase environmental stewardship.

To boost readiness, EMA has distributed 80 fire beaters to communities in Chikomba, Maron-dera, and Murehwa.
It has also issued 599 fire management orders requiring compliance by 31 July, and held 30 school shows and 19 community meetings, reaching over 10,000 learners and nearly 6,000 farmers in fire-prone districts.

A total of 545 veld fire awareness materials have also been distributed throughout Mashonaland East Province as part of ongoing efforts to ensure communities are well informed and prepared to prevent veld fires this season.

With continued collaboration between EMA, communities, and local institutions, the province remains hopeful that this fire season will see reduced incidents, improved preparedness, and a stronger culture of environmental responsibility.