Staff Reporter

The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has issued a strong warning to the public over the rising threat of veld fires, urging immediate action to prevent environmental destruction, loss of life, and damage to property.

In a statement released yesterday, EMA said the country faces heightened fire risks this year due to the unusually high volume of vegetation resulting from above-normal rainfall during the last rainy season.

The agency said unmanaged biomass has become a dangerous fuel source that can easily ignite during the dry season.

“Veld fires are a serious environmental hazard in Zimbabwe, contributing significantly to land degradation, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. The destruction of pastures, crops, and wildlife poses a direct threat to food security and rural livelihoods,” the agency said.

EMA is calling on farmers, landowners, and communities to take urgent preventative measures, including the construction of standard fireguards, reduction of excess vegetation through hay baling and thatch grass harvesting, and avoiding open burning.

Forestry Commission representative, Adam Nyanyuworeiterated the warning, urging Zimbabweans to act responsibly and take fire prevention seriously.

“We must adopt proactive land management strategies to reduce fire risk. Protecting our environment is not a choice; it is a duty,” he said.

EMA also encouraged the public to report cases of illegal burning and to educate others on fire safety, warning that negligence will not be tolerated.

The agency reminded citizens that those found guilty of starting veld fires could face fines or imprisonment under the Environmental Management Act.

In 2024, over one million hectares of land was destroyed by veld fires in the country with most incidents linked to human activities such as careless disposal of lit objects, land clearing, and illegal hunting practices.

EMA has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards veld fires and has urged communities to cooperate with local authorities and environmental officers in preventing new outbreaks.