Fire Control in Resettlement Farming Areas of Hwedza, Zimbabwe

This book is an investigation of measures implemented by farmers to control fire in Zimbabwe. In this book, fire control measures or activities by the farmers are identified and their performance assessed. The fire control measures were investigated through research conducted in the country's selected resettlement farming areas of Hwedza. The data used in the compilation of this book were derived from both primary and secondary sources. Primary data sources were questionnaires and interviews targeting households and key informants. Secondary data were collected from reports and records from relevant government institutions. The research findings in this book show evidence of fire control in the farming areas, before and during fire occurrence. They also reveal that fire control brought about a reduction of fire frequency and burnt area. However, government institutions and other stakeholders contributed to this reduction through capacity building, education and awareness raising. In order to alleviate the fire menace, the authors recommend early detection of fire, education and awareness as well as active participation of all responsible stakeholders and the affected farmers.