It is recorded that veld fires burned a total area of 3 million hectares in 2021 and burning an area of 24 million hectares in 2022. This includes forests, bush woodland and grassland in various regions across the country. Namibia`s fire season starts in April and ends in September. The fire season is usually characterized by strong winds, high temperature and dry vegetation resulting in fire burning uncontrollably.
Recorded to cause massive damages to the environment and properties over the past years, veld fires can be catastrophic when out of hand. It is for this reason that the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) have called upon members of the public, farmers and property owners to put measures (supervise children when using fire, put out fire completely after using it especially camp fires, clear grass around homesteads, put out cigarette butts completely after use, avoid using fire during strong winds, test smoke alarms, ensure electrical cords are in good working condition, ensure firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers and knapsacks are serviced and in good working order and use extension cords safety-not under carpets or across walking areas) in place to minimise the risk of veld fires.
The Ministry has activated the fire management system in order to deal with this expected natural disaster (veld fire). According to the ministry public relations officer Romeo Muyunda, the ministry will be implementing its fire management strategy which entails fire prevention and suppression activities, community outreach programs, education and awareness as well as stakeholder engagement.
Veld fires was recorded in thirteen (13) regions throughout the country with Kavango West having a highest record loss of 81 57 24 ha and Oshana region recording the least loss of 24 ha.
The Ministry have also called upon charcoal producers to adhere to charcoal production guidelines developed by the ministry in 2022. Fire is a useful resource however if not used responsibly, it can be destructive and detrimental to the environment and our well-being. In the event of a fire break out, members of the public are advised to report the incident to: nearest MEFT office, NAMPOL office, constituency office, regional council and town council offices, as well as to the Traditional Authority Offices.