Stakeholders from across the Shiselweni Region met in Nhlangano yesterday to find joint solutions to the growing threat of fire outbreaks and to improve disaster preparedness.
The meeting, held at Phumula Guest House, was convened by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and brought together community members, forestry companies, government departments, security agencies, and civil society organisations.
This year alone, Eswatini has recorded 87 fire incidents, with seven reported in Shiselweni, according to Mandla Dlamini from the Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services. He pointed to weaknesses in the country’s legal framework, saying multiple departments manage fire-related laws, causing fragmentation. Dlamini cited the outdated Grass Fire Act of 1955, which falls under the Ministry of Agriculture and carries a maximum fine of just E200, as an example of legislation that no longer meets present-day realities.
While fires in forest plantations appear to be declining, community-linked fires are increasing. Themba Hlophe from the Shiselweni Fire and Timber Association said progress has been made through partnerships with communities. He mentioned an incentive system for honey harvesters who rely on fire to disperse bees. Rather than setting uncontrolled fires, communities are encouraged to allow forestry companies to assist in harvesting safely.
NDMA and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are now working on a national fire management plan that will cover all four regions of the country.
UNDP’s Resident Representative, Henrik Franklin, told participants that community members are often the first to respond to fires and should be seen as partners, not just victims. He said private sector examples such as early warning systems, routine firebreaks, and community training offer lessons that could be scaled up nationally.
NDMA representative Gcebile Dlamini called for grassroots participation, especially among young people. Shiselweni Regional Administrator Themba Masuku urged that the discussions lead to real action on the ground.
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