Mbabane – The United Nations Development Programme has contributed E270,000 to support Eswatini’s efforts in fire prevention and response as the country prepares for the high wildfire risk season.
The funding was announced on Tuesday during a meeting in Mbabane to validate the Eswatini National Fire Preparedness, Adaptation and Response Plan 2025–2030. The session was hosted by the National Disaster Management Agency in partnership with the Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services and UNDP. Stakeholders from government, forestry, tourism and environmental sectors attended.
“Our responsibility is to make sure that the country is prepared before disasters strike and that our response systems work when they are needed,” NDMA Chief Executive Officer Victor Mahlalela said. “UNDP has injected E270,000 to support these efforts, which will improve coordination and readiness as we approach the high wildfire risk season.”
The meeting focused on establishing a national framework that prioritises prevention, preparedness and coordinated response over reactive firefighting. Officials noted that uncontrolled fires in previous years caused extensive damage to private property, natural resources and economic activity, especially in rural communities.
The plan defines roles for national institutions, local authorities and communities, with emphasis on early warning, joint operations and public awareness. Forestry, tourism and environmental agencies are expected to work closely with emergency services to reduce risks before fires spread.
Authorities also stressed the importance of community involvement, noting that local structures are often the first to detect and respond to fires. The plan proposes equipping communities with practical tools and knowledge to manage risks and act quickly during emergencies.
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