Mpumalanga Records Highest Fire Incident Rate in South Africa

Mpumalanga continues to top South Africa’s fire incident rates, with a sharp increase in wildfires recorded in recent years, according to Amanda Mthembu, spokesperson for the Working on Fire-Kishugu Joint Venture (WOF-Kishugu JV). The organisation’s data indicates a disturbing trend, with the number of wildfires rising significantly from 368 incidents in 2023 to 467 between January 1 and October 17 this year. The fire season is still ongoing, raising concerns about further incidents.

Nationally, the organisation has already responded to 2,277 wildfires during the same period, compared to 2,000 in 2017, another year marked by unusually high fire occurrences. The primary factors driving this increase include climate change, which has led to warmer temperatures and prolonged droughts, alongside human activities, such as urban expansion, outdoor events in fire-prone areas, and unsafe practices like leaving campfires unattended.

In response to the escalating situation, WOF-Kishugu JV has ramped up its firefighting efforts in partnership with local stakeholders. The team of over 5,300 firefighters, supported by 48 pilots and 18 aircraft support vehicles, is on high alert to safeguard vulnerable communities. The organisation emphasizes the importance of public awareness, urging people to stay vigilant, adhere to local fire bans, and report any signs of smoke to help prevent the spread of wildfires.

Mthembu further highlights that this record-breaking fire season underscores the need for increased community education, awareness programs, and stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations. She calls for collaboration among government agencies, fire management organisations, and local communities to mitigate the impact of future fire seasons.