VELD fires recorded as at October 10 this year have claimed three lives and destroyed property worth US$1,5 million across the country, government has said.
During post-Cabinet media briefing yesterday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services minister Jenfan Muswere said 211 fire incidents burnt 76 940,61ha compared to 49 745,83ha during the same period last year.
He attributed the fire incidents to windy conditions experienced during the week under review.
“Three lives have been lost to the veld fires recorded to date, and property valued at over US$1 454 850 comprising agricultural equipment, tourism facilities and household property has been destroyed,” he said.
Muswere said the veld fires were prevalent mainly in the provinces of Mashonaland West (46,06%), Mashonaland East (14,97%) and Mashonaland Central (14,73%).
“Government convened 177 fire awareness meetings during the week ending 10th October 2025, which were attended by 30 688 people.”
The minister called on farmers to have appropriate fire suppression measures, fire-fighting equipment and teams to fight veld fires.
“Farmers are further urged to use appropriate land preparation tools other than fire during this fire restriction period. Government will enforce the relevant penalties for non-adherence to regulations against veld fires,” Muswere said.
- Business opinion: Branding through Intellectual Property Rights
- Business opinion: Branding through Intellectual Property Rights
- Inaugural Zim investor indaba highlights
- Zanu PF 'threatens' terror attacks
Keep Reading
Meanwhile, government has said there is adequate grain at the national level, although localised shortages will be experienced in some areas.
“The ZimStats post-harvest survey of 25th September 2025 established that some 1 311 340 metric tonnes (MT) of grains, made up of 1 064 510MT of maize and 264 830MT of traditional grains, are being held by farmers.
“A total of 943 075MT of grain valued at US$367 415 622 were marketed through various off-takers. Government will continue releasing funds for outstanding payments to farmers for grain delivered,” he said.
Muswere said harvesting of winter wheat was underway with 57,6% of the planted wheat having been harvested, comprising 70 603ha with a volume of 385 267 tonnes achieved.
