The Implementation of FireControl Measures in Resettlement Farming AreasofHwedza, Zimbabwe

Despite fire control in Zimbabwe’s resettlement farming areas, fire continues to damage the environment, property, crops and causes loss of lives. The goal of this paper was to investigatefire control measures implementedby resettled farmers in Hwedza, Zimbabwe.The data used in the study were derived from both primary and secondary sources. Primary research data were obtained through questionnairesand interviews targeting households and key informants.Secondary data were collected from reports and records from relevant government institutions. Chi-square tests were conducted to establish the relationship between fire control measures and fire trends. The research findings show evidence of fire control in the study area with farmers implementing a combination of pre-suppression and suppression fire control measures. The use of fire breaks and fire brigades were the more prevalent pre-suppression measures implemented by 86% and 78% of the farmers respectively. The main fire suppression measures implemented were the use of fire beaters (92%) and dowsing with water (85%). Fire occurrence responded to control measures when burnt area declined by 24.1% for the period 2011-2014 when the number of farmers implementing control measures increased from 131 to 701.A negative association between the number of fires and fire pre-suppression measures; and burnt area and fire suppression measures was found.The study recommends early detection, education and awareness as the primary steps in ensuring effective fire control. Active participation of all responsible stakeholders and the affected farmers is also of importance to effectively manage fire.