The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has officially designated the second week of May as the launch of National Fire Week, signaling the start of the 2026 veld fire prevention campaign. This year’s theme, “Prevent, Protect, Preserve: Combating Veld Fires Together,” emphasizes collective responsibility in safeguarding lives, livestock, and the environment.
According to EMA, predictions for the 2026 season indicate an increased risk of veld fires across many parts of Zimbabwe. This is largely due to high grass biomass resulting from the recent rainy season, combined with the dry and windy conditions typical of this time of year.
In regions like Hwange, where wildlife habitats and local agriculture are vital, the threat of fire poses a significant risk to biodiversity and food security.The national launch and the rollout of the Integrated Fire Management Project are scheduled for May 13, 2026, in the Goromonzi District. However, the EMA has noted that all provinces and districts will roll out similar awareness events to strengthen community participation.
To minimize the risk of outbreaks, the EMA recommends the following immediate actions for farmers and property owners:
- Construct standard fireguards at least 9 meters wide around farms, homesteads and property boundaries.
- Properly extinguish all cigarette stubs before disposal and avoid using open fires during windy conditions
- Communities are encouraged to mobilize firefighting equipment and ensure every village has a trained firefighting team.
- Notify local authorities immediately if a fire outbreak is spotted.
Veld fires do more than destroy property; they contribute to air pollution and climate change while threatening human life. As the dry season intensifies, residents are called upon to unite in protecting the natural resources that define the region.
