The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Mpumalanga has written to the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Rural Development, Land and Environmental Affairs and its MEC Busi Shiba, asking them to consider declaring parts of Mpumalanga a disaster area, to unlock aid to landowners and farmers affected by the recent fires across the lowveld areas.
More than 12 different fires are reported to have flared up in parts of Bushbuckridge, White River, Mbombela, Kaapsehoop, Barberton, Lydenburg, Sabie and eManzana in what is deemed some of the worst blazes the lowveld areas of Mpumalanga has ever experienced.
A number of farmers and landowners around the lowveld areas have lost property and grazing areas for livestock because of these fires and are in need of help. The DA has thus requested the department to intervene and the MEC to consider triggering a local state of disaster.
The threat posed by these continuous fires to the residents of this province is of grave concern. Given the above, we call on the MEC and her department to also detail a provincial strategy in responding to the current damage to infrastructure and homes.
The cause of the fires has not yet been determined and the exact magnitude of the damage is not yet clear, but it has been reported that over 5 500 hectares of land has already been destroyed.
We are also asking ordinary members of the public to be cautious in starting accidental fires that may lead to disaster. We are also asking for any kind of assistance to the brave firefighters who are on the scene trying to extinguish the fires.
The DA extends its deepest gratitude and heartfelt thanks to the brave firefighters who are courageously fighting the fire on the frontline. Their unwavering dedication, incredible bravery, and tireless efforts to protect our communities and natural resources do not go unnoticed. They put their lives on the line to ensure the safety of others, demonstrating extraordinary heroism and selflessness. Their hard work and sacrifice are deeply appreciated, and we are profoundly grateful for their service.