Veld fires consume 435 000ha

OVER 435 000 hectares of land have been destroyed by veld fire since the beginning of the fire season on July 31 this year, raising fears that it will also likely destroy crops that have not yet been harvested.

Speaking at a press conference on the 2017 fire season update, Environment, Water and Climate permanent secretary Mr Prince Mupazviriwo said since July they have recorded a total of 776 fire incidences countrywide.

He said a comprehensive plan of action is required not only to prevent veld fires, but to expedite crop harvests as they are highly flammable.

“Veld fires compromise food security by destroying crops, pastures and as well as affecting the productive capacity of the soils,” he said.

“A total of 776 fire incidences have been recorded since the beginning of the fire season on the 31st of July to date, leading to a destruction of 435 170 hectares. This translates to 129 percent increase in the area burnt compared to the 222 000 hectares that were destroyed from 691 fire incidences recorded in 2016.

“Zimbabwe received abundant rainfall in the 2016-17 season as a result of Tropical Cyclone Dineo. The rains promoted the growth of grass that translated to high fuel load. Prediction for 2017 indicates that the fire season of July to November is generally at the high to extreme fire risk for the greater part of the country, and communities should therefore be prepared for fierce and violent veld fire incidences.”

The fire season in Zimbabwe — which is characterised by dry vegetation, hot and windy conditions conducive for veld fire outbreaks — often starts on July 31 each year and ends on October 31.

Mr Mupazviriwo said communities should be pro-active by erecting fireguards and harvesting tall grass, including hay baling for commercial purposes.