By Elvis Dumba
Chinhoyi — The Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Marian Chombo has emphasized the need for collective action to prevent veld fires, which pose a significant threat to livelihoods, ecosystems, and national development.
The Minister made the call during the launch of the 2025 Provincial Fire Awareness Week, held in the form of an indaba, which brought together stakeholders to discuss the critical issue of veld fire prevention.
“This gathering is more than just a discussion—it is a call to action, urging every individual, institution, and sector to actively participate in combating veld fires,” Hon. Chombo said.
The 2025 Fire Prediction Report by the Environmental Management Agency revealed that four districts in the province, namely Zvimba, Chegutu, Makonde, and Hurungwe, are in the extreme risk zone for veld fires.
“The prediction calls for tight veld fire management plans and strategies across the seven districts of the province,” Hon. Chombo emphasized.
The province has been losing an average of 400,000 hectares of forests and grasslands to veld fires, depriving wildlife and livestock of pastures and causing significant economic losses.
The 2024 veld fire statistics showed a dramatic 78% surge in hectares destroyed compared to the previous year.
Hon. Chombo urged government, communities, and stakeholders to unite in addressing the challenge of veld fires.
“By fostering open dialogue and collaborative action, we can strengthen prevention strategies, improve response mechanisms, and align efforts with national priorities,” she said.
The Minister appealed to traditional leaders to mainstream veld fire issues into all developmental programs and to use their traditional courts to bring veld fire offenders to book.
“You are the custodians of our environmental resources, and you form the base of our local government. Please guard these resources jealously,” Hon Chombo said.
The Minister also highlighted that Zimbabwe will be hosting the 15th meeting of the Conference of Contracting Parties (COP15) of the Convention on Wetlands in Victoria Falls later this year.
“The country should put a seamless effort towards preventing veld fires to afford delegates an absolute veld fire-free conferencing,” she emphasized.
Officially launching the fire, indaba Minister Chombo emphasized that inclusivity must remain at the heart of the fight against veld fires.
“Every stakeholder must actively contribute to mitigating this growing menace and safeguarding our future,” she said.
Provincial Secretary for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Josphat Jaji, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, highlighting the need for a unified, integrated approach to veld fire prevention.
“If we embrace fire prevention as a multi-dimensional effort, spanning economic, social, and political spheres, we can drive the change we seek,” he said.
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