Farmers in Limpopo’s Mopani District have been encouraged to take a proactive approach to veld fire prevention and disaster preparedness to protect their farms, livestock and livelihoods.
By Maile Matsimela, digital editor at African Farming
The call was made during a farmers’ awareness session hosted by the Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD) in partnership with the Mopani District Municipality and Working on Fire at the Kgapane Local Agricultural Office on 30 July.
The session covered practical strategies for preventing veld fires and improving disaster risk management across farming communities.
Fire prevention starts on every farm
Patrick Mathe from Working on Fire said preventing veld fires starts with individual farmers taking responsibility for fire safety on their properties. He encouraged farmers to establish and maintain firebreaks around their farms, describing them as one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of fires.
“Fire prevention begins at household level,” he said, adding that well-maintained firebreaks help protect farming operations, neighbouring properties and the surrounding environment.
Also read: Every veld fire leaves a scar
Preparedness goes beyond emergencies
Representing the Mopani Disaster Management Centre, Phyagane Makgopa urged farmers to equip themselves with basic firefighting skills and ensure preventative measures are in place before the fire season intensifies.
Makgopa explained disaster risk management is more than responding to emergencies. It includes prevention, preparedness, coordinated emergency response and recovery after disasters, all of which are essential for reducing the impact of veld fires on farming communities.
Also read: From our editor: Winter’s silent war on South African farmers
Joining Fire Protection Associations is key
Phahladira further encouraged farmers to become members of Fire Protection Associations to strengthen their knowledge, preparedness and response to veld fire incidents.
He said working together through organised structures enables farmers to share information, improve coordination and respond more effectively when fires threaten agricultural land.
Also:
How to assess and treat livestock after a veld fire
Veld fire arson puts North West grazing at risk as MEC demands community vigilance
Increase in veld fires threatens food prices and farm production costs
