Annually, veld fires result in disastrous loss of natural grazing land, livestock and in some instance loss of human life. The priority must be to reduce the risk of veld fires as well as preparedness to fight for them.
These sporadic fires are in the main caused by the aridness of the grass and shrub as well as the prevailing winds. The dryness of the vegetation coupled with the winds that are constantly changing directions creates perfect conditions for runaway veld fires to ignite. The department is also making a plea to motorist not to throw away cigarette butts through the window.
Veld fires are a serious threat to the agricultural sector and land users are urged adhere to the following risk measures:
- ensure fire-fighting equipments are easily accessible and in good working condition.
- be aware of and participate in the local Fire Protection Association (FPA) activities and plan
- control and restrict open fires e.g. creation of veld fires belts.
- braai fires must never be left unattended especially on or near dry vegetation.
- monitor hot sports for possible veld fires outbreaks and report them immediately to local Fire Protection Association, municipalities, Extension Office or South African Police or have relevant contact numbers at hand.
Activities:
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development have developed a strategy, in accordance with provisions in Act 57 of 2002, to develop an Agricultural Disaster and Risk Management Plan. The implementation strategy can be summarised and allows for the following phases/ main activities as follows:
- Phase 1 (2009/10): Gap Analysis
- Phase 2 (2010/11): Risk Assessment Study
- Phase 3 (2011/12): Risk and Disaster Management Plans (Contingency Planning)
The Gap Analysis Phase, as well as the Agricultural Risk Assessment Phase has been successfully conducted during the 2009/10 and 2010/11 financial years.
A GAP Analysis Report was submitted by the service provider during March 2010 and a comprehensive study and assessment of all possible risks that could have an influence on the agricultural sector in the Northern Cape Province was submitted in March 2011. The Risk Assessment Study has set the scene and is the basis upon which the various contingency plans will be developed in order to address and manage existing and future risks and disasters within the Province.
Plans are underway to finalise phase 3 in the development of an Agricultural Disaster and Risk Management Plan. The Contingency Planning Phase entails the development of Disaster and Risk Management Plans to be developed for Veld Fires, Drought and Floods within the Northern Cape Province.
The final Agricultural Disaster- and Risk Management Plan will be completed by end March 2012, as indicated by the Honorable MEC for Agriculture, Mr. Shushu, during the budget speech in April 2011.
Enquiries: Ali Diteme
Tel: 053 838 7159
Cell: 0834529851
E-mail: aliditeme@ncpg.gov.za
