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Takudzwa Magudu Chronicle Reporter
Matabeleland chiefs have expressed concern at the destruction of the environment caused by veld fires started by individuals.
In separate interviews on Friday, Chief Khulumani Mathema of Gwanda Wenlock area said it  should be everybody’s responsibility to preserve the environment.
“Veld fires are destroying the environment and as communities we must stop starting veld fires.  We as traditional leaders are very worried when pastures for our livestock are destroyed by these veld fires,” he said.

Chief Mathema said every year large tracts of land are destroyed resulting in livestock starving.
“Our mission should be to promote sustainable management of natural resources and protection of the environment with community participation,” he said.

Chief Gampu from Tsholotsho echoed similar sentiments saying veld fires can be avoided if people become vigilant.
He attributed shortage of pasture to failure to control veld fires started by poachers, gold panners and reckless individuals throwing away burning cigarette stubs.

The chief said there was a need to put up fireguards to protect the environment from fires. “We continue to urge our people to stop starting veld fires,” he said.

Chief Gampu also called for stiffer penalties for those found guilty of starting veld fires.
“Government should come up with deterrent sentences if we are to stop these veld fires. The culprits should be infact be jailed,” he said.
Chief Nkalakatha of Nkayi said communities should come up with mechanisms to discourage people from starting veld fires.

Chief Sibasa from Insiza concurred with Chief Nkalakatha  saying apart from discouraging individuals from starting the fires, communities establish fireguards.