IN recent years, the nation as a whole has faced numerous fire incidents that have resulted in
devastating consequences for our lives as humans and the environment.
The frequency and intensity of these fires have been on the rise due to various factors, including
human activities, and inadequate fire safety measures and so on. It is very crucial for everyone
either the Government, communities or individuals to prioritise fire awareness and preparedness
to mitigate these risks and protect lives and property.
The fire statistics for Zimbabwe really paint a worrying picture, demonstrating the urgent need to
address fire safety. According to the Zimbabwe Fires Association, 7511 fire incidents were
recorded during 2022 fire season, which destroyed 1753 055,9 hectares of forest and grassland
and claimed 18 lives. This number reflects an alarming increase compared to previous years.
From these 18 lives lost, the province (Matabeleland South) lost 10 lives from a single veld fire
incident, which left the whole province devastated. Fires destroy not only human lives and
property but also have a detrimental impact on the environment. The nation witnessed vast acres
of forests, grasslands, and wildlife habitats consumed by flames in 2022.
Understanding the causes and factors contributing to fires is essential in developing effective fire
safety strategies. Zimbabwe, like many other countries, is experiencing the consequences of
climate change, leading to prolonged droughts and extreme weather conditions that favour the
rapid spread of fires. Also, human activities such as uncontrolled land clearance, slash and burn
agriculture, unattended open fires, and improper handling of flammable materials are major
contributors to the prevalence of fire incidents in Zimbabwe.
Inadequate fire safety measures such as lack of fire-resistant infrastructure, obsolete firefighting
equipment, insufficient training, and limited public awareness exacerbate the impact of fires. In
Matabeleland South Province, in the process of curbing these fire incidents during this fire
season, so far the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) have managed to issue out 103
fire orders, construct a fireguard of 355.18km, bailed an area of 7965.7 hectares and produced
11624bales. The province also managed to carry out six meetings and 63 talk shows, reaching
out to 1227 people (thematic area was veld fire preparedness) as well as encouraging people to
construct fire-guards and formation of fire-fighting teams. It also conducted 29 fire inspections
and harvested 9374 thatch grass bundles.
Conclusively, Zimbabwe is grappling with the increasing threat of fires, endangering lives,
property, and the environment. By prioritising fire awareness and preparedness, implementing
robust safety measures, and fostering a culture of responsible fire management, the nation can
take significant strides towards mitigating this ever-growing hazard.
Only by working collectively, can we protect Zimbabwe from the devastating consequences of
fires and create a safer future for all.
