The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) has called on communities, farmers, landowners, and other stakeholders across Zimbabwe to strengthen veld fire prevention measures ahead of the 2026 Veld Fire Restriction Period, which will run from 1 July to 30 November.

In a public notice, EMA said the restriction period is aimed at reducing the occurrence and impact of veld fires, which continue to pose a significant threat to lives, livelihoods, biodiversity, and the environment during the dry season.

With only a few days remaining before the commencement of the restriction period, the agency urged communities to ensure that adequate fire prevention and suppression measures are in place. These include the construction and maintenance of fireguards, the establishment and training of firefighting teams at farm and village level, and ensuring that firefighting equipment is readily available and accessible in the event of a fire outbreak.

EMA also encouraged communities to establish local fire alert systems to facilitate rapid response to veld fire incidents. The agency further emphasized the need to reduce excess biomass through sustainable practices such as thatch grass harvesting, grass combing, and hay baling, which can help minimize the amount of combustible material available during the fire season.

The agency said awareness raising should remain a priority, urging communities to continuously educate residents through meetings, gatherings, and other public platforms on the dangers of veld fires and the importance of prevention.

During the restriction period, members of the public are advised to avoid the use of fire outside residential and business premises. Any veld fire incidents should be reported immediately to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), traditional leaders, local authorities, the Forestry Commission, Agricultural and Rural Development Advisory Services (AARDS), and EMA to ensure a swift response.

EMA warned that failure to comply with veld fire prevention regulations may result in penalties, including a fine not exceeding Level 14, imprisonment for a period not exceeding one year, or both.

The agency reiterated that preventing veld fires is a shared responsibility and called on all Zimbabweans to play their part in protecting the environment, communities, agricultural land, and natural resources from the devastating effects of uncontrolled fires.