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Nokusa Masuku Chronicle Reporter
MORE than 970,000 hectares of land have been destroyed by veld fires since the beginning of the fire season two months ago.
Matabeleland North provincial environmental officer, Nkululeko Mathobela, said despite the high incidence of fires, there had been a reduction which he credited to the prosecution of offenders.

During the same period last year, fire swept through 1,179,274 hectares of land causing four human deaths and destroying property worth $95,832,75.

“We use both methods but education is the first method that we use through road shows, pamphlets, radio talk shows and debates.
“Perpetrators of veld fires are sent to courts,” said Mathobela, speaking on the sidelines of an EMA-sponsored secondary schools debate held at Fatima High School.

During the schools debate, whose theme was “Environmental Prosecution and Not Environmental Education is the Best Way to Reduce Veld Fires in Zimbabwe”, schools highlighted the various causes of veld fires which include dropping lit cigarette stubs, poaching, clearing land for mining or farming and lack of knowledge.

Fourteen schools from seven districts in Matabeleland North participated in the debate, and Dinyane High and Inyathi High came first and second, respectively. They were each given a water tank and a trophy.

The schools called for more educational campaigns on the effects and causes of veld fires.

Meanwhile, Chief Mabhikwa, who was the guest of honour at the event, said the environmental awareness campaigns were in line with the country’s economic blueprint, Zim-Asset.

“Most perpetrators of veld fires are youths. They need to be empowered. The Constitution of Zimbabwe states that every citizen of Zimbabwe has a right to education,” said Chief Mabhikwa.