Two children were burnt beyond recognition on Saturday afternoon in Esigodini after the bedroom hut they were sleeping in caught fire.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident, saying the children’s mother had left them unattended while she visited a local business centre. The Police statement reads:
<blockquote>
The ZRP reports a sad incident in which a girl (4 years) and a boy (2 years) were burnt beyond recognition after a bedroom hut they were sleeping in caught fire on 12/04/25 at around 1630 hours at Esibomvu area, Esigodini.
The incident occurred after the victims’ mother had reportedly locked the bedroom door from the outside and went to Esibomvu Business Centre.
</blockquote>
In a separate incident earlier this month, a toddler tragically perished in an inferno at a homestead in Village 3, Dromoland, Inyathi, Nkayi, after the house she was sleeping in caught fire.
The mother had left the child lying on the bed while accompanying the toddler’s 4-year-old brother to school. The baby girl was 1 year and 5 months old.

Pindula News

Two children were burnt to death in a fire in Esigodini. Their mother left them alone while she went out. The children, a 4-year-old girl and a 2-year-old boy, were sleeping in a hut when it caught fire. The girl and boy were burnt so badly they could not be recognized. This is not the only tragic fire incident recently, as another baby girl died in a fire in Inyathi. The baby was left alone in a house while her mother took her brother to school. It is important to always be careful with fire and never leave children alone.

Two Sleeping Children Burnt Beyond Recognition In Esigodini

A toddler tragically perished in an inferno in Nkayi on Friday after the house it was sleeping in caught fire.
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), the mother had left the child lying on the bed while accompanying the toddler’s sibling to school. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is investigating the circumstances surrounding a tragic fire incident which resulted in the death of a baby girl (1year, 5 months) at a homestead in Village 3, Drommoland, Inyathi, Nkayi on 04/04/25. The incident occurred when the house in which the baby was sleeping in caught fire. The cause of fire is yet to be established. The mother had left the victim lying on the bed while accompanying the victim’s brother to school.
</blockquote>
In an equally tragic but separate incident, also confirmed by the ZRP, a 29-year-old Bulawayo man was arrested for allegedly killing his wife in cold blood.
Blessed Mpofu reportedly bludgeoned his wife, Shylet Siyabonga (21), at a house near Insukamini, ZETDC sub-station. The ZRP said:
<blockquote>
On 05/04/25, Police in Bulawayo arrested Blessed Mpofu (29) in connection with the murder of his wife, Shylet Siyabonga (21) at a house near Insukamini, ZETDC sub-station. The victim was found dead with multiple head injuries at the house. Initially, the suspect claimed that his wife had been attacked by unknown robbery suspects on her way home, near Emgwanwini Shopping Centre. Investigations by the police led to the recovery of a blood-stained rake and broom at the scene, which linked the suspect to the heinous crime.
</blockquote>

A baby girl died in a fire while left alone in Nkayi, Zimbabwe. The mother had left her to take her sibling to school. Another sad incident involved a man named Blessed Mpofu who killed his wife by hitting her on the head. At first, he lied about it being a robbery, but evidence showed he did it. The police arrested him for the murder. It's important to always be careful and not leave small children alone in dangerous situations.

Toddler Perishes In House Fire In Nkayi

In two separate but equally tragic incidents, two children drowned in an abandoned pit in Chipinge, while an elderly man was burnt beyond recognition in Chitungwiza.
In the first incident, confirmed by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), two male infants, aged 5 and 6, drowned in an abandoned pit filled with rainwater while swimming at Muradzikwa Village, Chipinge, on 24 February.
The victims, along with their 7-year-old sister, were left at home while their grandmother attended a funeral in the neighbourhood. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms a tragic incident in which two male infants, aged 5 and 6, drowned in an abandoned pit filled with rain water while swimming at Muradzikwa Village, Chipinge on 24/02/25.
The victims, along with their 7-year-old sister, were left at home while their grandmother attended a funeral in the neighbourhood.
The three children went to the nearby pit to swim, resulting in the tragic drowning of the two victims.
</blockquote>
In the second incident, the ZRP said a 73-year-old man was burnt beyond recognition after the house he was in caught fire in Zengeza 2, Chitungwiza, on Wednesday. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms a tragic fire incident which occurred at a house in Zengeza 2, Chitungwiza on 26/02/25. A man (73) was burnt beyond recognition after the house he was in caught fire.
The blaze also destroyed property which was in the house and shattered window panes. 
</blockquote>
The ZRP added that investigations are currently underway to determine the exact cause of the fire

Two children drowned in a pit while swimming in Chipinge and an elderly man died in a house fire in Chitungwiza. The children, aged 5 and 6, drowned in the pit while their grandma was at a funeral. The elderly man, 73, was burnt in a fire in his house. Police are investigating the cause of the fire. It is very sad and important to be safe around water and fire to prevent accidents like these from happening.

Two Children Drown In Chipinge, Elderly Man Dies In House Fire Chitungwiza

A Mandaza Bus Services coach travelling to Harare was completely destroyed by fire on Sunday morning after experiencing a mechanical fault.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) reported that the incident occurred at the 195-kilometre mark along the Harare-Masvingo road at approximately 10 AM.
The bus was carrying 58 passengers, all of whom managed to escape without injury. The ZRP said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms a fire incident involving a Mandaza bus which occurred at the 195-kilometre peg along Harare-Masvingo road on 15/12/24 at around 1000 hours.
The bus which was travelling towards Harare with 58 passengers on board caught fire after developing a mechanical fault and was burnt to shell. All passengers escaped unhurt.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A Mandaza Bus going to Harare caught fire due to a problem with the engine. It happened on the road at around 10 AM. The bus had 58 passengers, but everyone got out safely. The police were called to help. The bus was completely burned. All the passengers were okay despite the scary situation. Everyone is grateful that no one got hurt.

58 Passengers Safe After Mandaza Bus Catches Fire

A fire broke out at the Diamond Hostel of Midlands State University’s Zvishavane Campus on October 19, 2024.
In a statement released on Sunday, October 20, MSU Registrar Tinashe Zishiri confirmed that there were no casualties, although students did lose their personal belongings. He added that the cause of the fire is currently under investigation by experts. Said Zishiri:
<blockquote>
Midlands State University regrets to inform its valued stakeholders of a fire incident that occurred at the Diamond Hostel, Zvishavane Campus, on the 19th of October 2024.
We are relieved to report that there were no casualties, however, the resident students unfortunately lost their personal belongings.
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by experts. We assure you that a thorough inquiry is being conducted to determine the origin and circumstances of this incident.
Meanwhile, the University has taken immediate action to support the affected students by securing alternative accommodation, providing meals and supplying essential provisions.
Medical attention has been offered to affected students. Furthermore, ongoing psychosocial support is being provided by the University Counselling Services department to assist with the students’ mental well-being.
Midlands State University deeply regrets this distressing event. We want to reassure all stakeholders that we are implementing all necessary measures to ensure the safety, security, and wellness of our students.
</blockquote>
Zishiri said the University will provide further updates as more information becomes available.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A fire broke out at Midlands State University's Zvishavane Campus on October 19, 2024. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but students lost their things. The cause of the fire is being investigated. The university is helping affected students with accommodation, food, and other essentials. They are also offering medical and mental health support. The university is sorry for what happened and is working to keep students safe. More updates will come later.

Fire Breaks Out At MSU's Zvishavane Campus Hostel

ZANU PF Harare provincial chairperson Goodwills Masimirembwa’s business offices were petrol bombed by unknown assailants on Sunday morning in Harare.
Reports suggest that the assailants, travelling in three vehicles, also attacked the security guard at the premises, which houses the Zimbabwe Institute of Legal Studies along Fife Avenue near the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission offices.
It is further alleged that the security guard sustained burns on nearly 80 per cent of his body and was taken to Parirenyatwa Hospital for treatment.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed the incident in a post on their X page on Sunday:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is currently attending to a suspected petrol bomb incident which occurred at Zimbabwe Institute of Legal Studies along Fife Avenue near ZAAC offices, Harare.
</blockquote>
Masimirembwa told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/cde-masimirembwas-business-offices-petrol-bombed/">The Herald</a> that he was informed by one of his administrators about the incident at around 4 AM. He said:
<blockquote>
What happened is, I was phoned by the administrator of this college, which I own and told that around 4 am this place was petrol bombed.
The people who came here were about eight bouncers in two Fortuner vehicles and a Honda Fit. They were carrying petrol with them in a container.
They attacked our guard, made him lie and beat him up, poured petrol on him and burnt him.
As it is, he is struggling for his life at Parirenyatwa Hospital. He has over 80 per cent burns.
They threw a petrol bomb and they ran away. That is basically what happened. Clearly, these people did not come to rob or steal anything. It is something else.
It was one office mainly where the petrol bomb landed. I think their hope was the place would then catch fire, but fortunately, that did not happen.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Unknown attackers threw a petrol bomb at the offices of ZANU PF bigwig Godwills Masimirembwa in Harare. The attack also hurt the security guard, who was badly burned and taken to the hospital. The police are investigating the incident. Masimirembwa said the assailants came with petrol and attacked the guard before throwing the bomb. Luckily, the fire did not spread. The motive behind the attack is still unclear, as they did not steal anything. The guard is fighting for his life in the hospital.

ZANU PF Bigwig Godwills Masimirembwa's Offices Petrol Bombed

Witnesses of the Mbare Musika fire described it as possibly the worst blaze the area has seen in decades.
The fire, which broke out on Tuesday night, engulfed shacks and market stalls, rapidly spreading through the steel, wood, and plastic structures, as well as flammable materials typical of the shanty suburb.
As the fire raged, people sought to escape and salvage their belongings. Many carried large bags and pushed carts used for transporting goods, while others helped those in need amid the flames and crackling wood.
The scene was marked by shattered glass and crumbling structures, accompanied by sounds of distress and calls for assistance.
The fire reduced shacks to ashes, displacing residents and leaving families homeless, their livelihoods consumed by the flames.
Taurai Nendoro, a witness, told The NewsHawks that the fire began around 9 PM, but the cause remains unknown.
He said:
<blockquote>
We really don’t know what caused the fire, but I have never seen anything like this in Mbare for the past 30 years I have been living here.
We only heard the fire was caused by candlelight, people use candles in this area as we usually don’t have electricity from 6 pm to 6 am.
This area is also overcrowded and any incident of fire can easily spread. There are lots of combustible materials in these dwellings here and that makes this place susceptible to fire outbreaks.
</blockquote>
Another Mbare resident Vimbai Dandara said the damage to property and displacement of people was huge.
<blockquote>
It’s a disaster. I don’t even know where I will go tonight; my family has lost everything. We have lost our dwelling, all the goods that we buy and sell to make a living and our belongings.
</blockquote>
Charles Gomo, another witness, said the impact of the fire was severe, highlighting the destruction of property and loss of livelihoods, as well as the trauma and psychological distress faced by those affected. “This is shocking,” he remarked.
The fire brigade, along with other hands-on services from the Harare City Council, responded to the scene as firefighters worked to control the blaze.
Three fire tenders were deployed, but they faced challenges due to water shortages, a large crowd obstructing movement, and difficulties manoeuvring within the densely populated area.
Harare City Council spokesperson Stanley Gama, who was at the scene, said:
<blockquote>
This is a critical situation and as you can see the fire brigade is doing all it can to douse the fire. They were here at the earliest time possible and have been battling the blaze for hours.
However, the fire tenders have no capacity to carry adequate water to overcome this blaze immediately. 
They have to keep on going back and forth to fetch water, so it will take time to put the situation under control.
There is also the challenge of crowds and shanty structures here which make it difficult to manoeuvre. 
Police need to help to control crowds and people’s movements to allow firefighters to do their work unimpeded.
Investigations into the fire’s cause will follow after the blaze has been extinguished, and people and goods rescued.
We are doing all we can to quickly ensure this emergency is under control and people are helped.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A big fire happened at Mbare Musika. It was the worst blaze in a long time. The fire destroyed houses and market stalls made of steel, wood, and plastic. People tried to save their things and help each other. Many lost their homes and belongings. The fire started at night, but no one knows why. The fire brigade tried to stop the fire, but it was hard because there was not enough water and too many people. People are sad and need help. They will figure out what caused the fire later.

Mbare Musika Fire: Witnesses Call It the Worst Blaze In Decades

A massive fire engulfed Mbare Musika, the market, and several surrounding shops on Tuesday night, the City of Harare has confirmed.
In a statement, the council reported that the Fire Brigade was working to control the blaze, with three fire tenders dispatched to combat the flames.
The volunteer group Emergency Help Group mobilised tankers of water to ensure that the fire tenders would not need to return to the depot for refills.
The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, but videos shared on social media showed a large blaze burning in the distance, with thick billows of smoke visible in the night sky.
The City of Harare, however, complained that some people were obstructing fire tenders and firefighters from reaching the blaze, as some bystanders had begun looting. Said the council:
<blockquote>
Thousands of people are blocking fire tenders and firefighters from accessing the fire as some have resorted to looting.
The City of Harare is appealing to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) to urgently control the crowd to allow firefighters to do their job.
</blockquote>
In a subsequent update on its social media pages, the Harare City Council announced that the fire had been brought under control thanks to the combined efforts of the police and the Emergency Help Group. It said:
<blockquote>
The fire at Mbare Musika is now under control only after the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) cleared the huge crowd that had gathered.
Fire Tenders and water bowsers provided by the Emergency Help Group managed to gain access to the fire.
Well done to the the City of Harare Fire Team once again for a great job and a big thank you to ZRP and the Emergency Help Group.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A big fire happened at Mbare Musika and some shops on Tuesday night. The city of Harare said the Fire Brigade was trying to control the fire. Three fire trucks were sent to help. A group called Emergency Help Group also helped by bringing water tankers. The cause of the fire is still not known. Videos on social media show a big fire and lots of smoke. They are still investigating.

Massive Fire Engulfs Mbare Musika And Surrounding Shops

More than 40 decommissioned passenger coaches belonging to the National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) were destroyed by a suspected veld fire at the company’s mechanical workshop in Bulawayo on Monday afternoon.
According to the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/watch-raging-fire-destroys-40-nrz-passenger-coaches/">Chronicle</a>, the Bulawayo Fire Brigade took over four hours to contain the blaze, which began around 1 PM.
Fortunately, no deaths or injuries were reported, despite the rapid spread of the fire.
The fire brigade deployed six fire tenders to manage the situation and had to connect to the NRZ borehole system for additional water supply.
Mhlangano Moyo, the acting chief fire officer of the Bulawayo Fire Brigade, was present at the scene, said:
<blockquote>
We had to bring water bowsers for more water to douse the fire, which preliminary investigations indicate could have been a veld fire that quickly spread and torched the passenger coaches.
When we got to the scene of the fire at the NRZ Mechanical Workshop, we found out that the fire had spread in all directions and several coaches were already alight.
We managed to contain the fire and the team will continue to monitor the situation on the ground. Investigations will continue.
</blockquote>
<img decoding="async" src="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/nrz-disaster-1.jpg"/>
NRZ public relations manager, Andrew Kunambura, said that the destroyed passenger coaches were decommissioned by the NRZ some time back but were still worth millions of dollars. Said Kunambura:
<blockquote>
The fire destroyed multiple decommissioned coaches, which were awaiting to be disposed of in the form of scrap metal and the process to do that was already underway.
The fire broke out around lunchtime and we are not yet sure what caused the fire but we suspect that since a lot of people pass through this place, someone could have dropped a cigarette stub that ignited a veld fire.
The fire spread very fast and the City of Bulawayo Fire Brigade reacted very quickly and put out the fire.
Fortunately, none of our employees were injured and no death was recorded. Investigations are still underway and we will inform the nation on what exactly started the fire in due course.
The coaches might have been decommissioned but they remained valuable NRZ property and for as long as the NRZ can realise something out of the sale of the scrap metal, then the coaches remain important assets.
</blockquote>
<img decoding="async" src="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2024/09/nrz-disaster-3.jpg"/>
Zimbabwe faces significant challenges in dealing with fire outbreaks, particularly veld fires.
The country struggles with high-risk areas, especially during the dry season from July to October.
In 2023, veld fires affected over 858,000 hectares across 3,717 incidents.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A big fire destroyed over 40 old train coaches in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. The fire started around 1 PM and the fire brigade took over four hours to put it out. Luckily, no one got hurt. The coaches were no longer in use but were still worth a lot of money. The fire may have been caused by a cigarette. Zimbabwe often has problems with fires, especially during the dry season. This is a big challenge for the country.ается

Fire Destroys Over 40 NRZ Coaches In Bulawayo

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed a fire incident that occurred on Friday afternoon at the ZRP Southerton Police Station complex.
The complex houses two key police units – the Duty Uniform Branch (DUB) and the CID Vehicle Theft Squad (VTS).
According to a statement issued by the police, the fire originated from an electricity pylon situated close to the property and quickly spread throughout the yard.
In the process, a total of 12 vehicles parked within the police station complex were severely damaged and burned.
The ZRP has not yet disclosed the potential cause of the fire and no injuries to police officers or other personnel have been reported so far. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms that investigations are being conducted in connection with a fire incident which occurred this afternoon at the ZRP Southerton Police Station complex which houses the Duty Uniform Branch (DUB) and CID Vehicle Theft Squad (VTS). The fire emanated from an electricity pylon and spread through the yard. In the process, 12 vehicles were burnt.
</blockquote>
A statement issued earlier on Friday by the City of Harare reads:
<blockquote>
Initial reports about the inferno at Southerton Police Station are that it started as a grass fire and then engulfed vehicles parked in the Vehicle Theft Squad yard damaging seven Trucks, one bus and four light motor vehicles. Our fire brigade managed to contain the fire and used approximately 21000 litres of water. The City firefighters once again did a splendid job to contain a fire which was threatening to escalate.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A fire broke out at the ZRP Southerton Police Station complex in Zimbabwe, destroying 12 cars. The fire started near an electricity pylon and quickly spread throughout the area. The police are investigating the cause of the fire. Luckily, no one was injured in the incident. The complex houses two important police units - the Duty Uniform Branch and the CID Vehicle Theft Squad. It is still unclear what caused the fire.

12 Cars Burnt At ZRP Southerton Police Station Complex

A fire broke out at the Brethren in Christ Church-run Matopo High School in the early hours of Friday, July 5th, but fortunately, there were no reported fatalities or injuries.
In a statement, the school authorities stated that the fire, the cause of which could not be immediately determined, had erupted in the boys’ dormitory, resulting in the destruction of property. The school said:
<blockquote>
We regret to inform the public of a devastating fire incident that occurred at Matopo High School in the early hours of Friday, the 5th of July 2024.
The fire broke out in the boys’ dormitory, resulting in the complete destruction of property. The dormitory houses 52 learners.
Everything including 52 school trucks, 52 beds, their uniforms and extra clothing was burnt to ashes.
Fortunately, due to the swift action of our students and staff, no lives were lost. All learners managed to escape safely.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Bulawayo City Council (BCC) Fire Brigade and ZESA, but we are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability.
Our thoughts are with the affected learners, their families and the school during this difficult time.
We express our gratitude to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), The Bulawayo City Council (BCC) fire brigade department, and The Ministry of Primary And Secondary Officials who promptly arrived at the scene to offer their hand.
</blockquote>
The school added that ensuring the safety and well-being of learners is its utmost priority, and it will implement all necessary measures to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

52 Learners Lose Trunks, Beds And Uniforms In Dormitory Fire At Matopo High School

A 29-year-old man from Zimbiru village under Chief Chinamhora, Domboshava, is facing a murder charge after allegedly setting his estranged wife on fire following a misunderstanding over the sharing of matrimonial property.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/man-kills-estranged-wife-after-setting-her-on-fire/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, the accused, Ashley Kabaya appeared before Harare Magistrate Dennis Mangosi who advised him to apply for bail at the High Court.
Kabaya is currently recovering at Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals after he sustained burns when he set his wife on fire.
Prosecuting, Rufaro Chonzi alleged that on April 15 2024, Kabaya and his now-deceased wife, Sphiwe Jenyure, were in a room sharing property following the dissolution of their union.
Kabaya allegedly locked the door from the inside before striking Jenyure with a golf stick.
He then poured a mixture of cobra (a flammable floor polish) and paraffin on her, and then set her on fire. Said Chonzi:
<blockquote>
The two were in their room sharing property as they were in their final stages of divorcing. The accused person poured a mix of cobra and paraffin on her body and set fire to her.
</blockquote>
It is alleged that when Jenyure realised that Kabaya was about to flee, she summoned all her strength whilst engulfed by flames and grabbed him and he also caught fire. That was how he sustained burns.
The court further heard that a passer-by, Zulu Digital, heard the now deceased screaming and opened the door.
He tried to extinguish the flames with the help of other community members who had gathered at the scene.
Kabaya and Jenyure were taken to Makumbe Hospital in Domboshava for treatment and later transferred to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals due to the severity of the burns.
Unfortunately, Jenyure later died on April 17 at Parirenyatwa Hospital and her remains await postmortem.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Man Sets Estranged Wife On Fire

In Chinhoyi, a businessman’s shop was engulfed in flames on Sunday evening, resulting in the loss of valuable merchandise, including household appliances and furniture.
<a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/fire-destroys-chinhoyi-building-electrical-appliances-furniture-reduced-to-ashes/">NewZimbabwe.com</a> reported that the unfortunate incident unfolded before the eyes of the unidentified owner, who was outside the premises.
The fire is suspected to have been caused by an electrical fault attributed to the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA), known for its erratic power supply.
Leslie Mhangwa, the Member of Parliament for Chinhoyi, visited the site and identified deficiencies in the emergency services. He said:
<blockquote>
I am yet to confirm but those who came earlier than myself exclaimed that there was a delay as the team, which arrived after one hour, struggled to get the operation of the new fire tenders correct.
It may be worthwhile to have retraining of our firefighters. A further delay was attributed to the hydrant being in Orange Grove. We need to resuscitate hydrants nearby.
</blockquote>
Mhangwa, an engineer by profession, reiterated the need for buildings to be fire-compliant. He said:
<blockquote>
The damage was severe, rendering everything in the shop unsalvageable. Fortunately, the adjacent shops were spared due to the fire-resistant wall that separates them.
Given our town’s age, it’s likely that electrical faults contribute to fires. As responsible landlords, we must prioritize rewiring our buildings every 20-30 years.
Over time, building insulation deteriorates, posing a significant fire risk. Ensuring electrical compliance is crucial for building safety.
Consider investing in fire detection and suppression systems for buildings. Unfortunately, most structures in Chinhoyi lack proper fire safety measures.
</blockquote>
It is important for shop owners to implement effective fire prevention measures to safeguard their building and its occupants. Here are some essential steps they can take:
<ul>
<li>Maintaining clear pathways, hallways, stairways, and outdoor areas, including fire hydrant paths.</li>
<li>Regularly checking fire alarm systems, including smoke detectors, heat detectors, and evacuation systems.</li>
<li>Keeping cigarette butts away from the building and flammable materials.</li>
<li>Regularly inspecting electrical systems, wiring, and appliances.</li>
<li>Rewiring older buildings to maintain safety.</li>
<li>Conducting annual fire safety training sessions to reinforce good practices.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fire Destroys Chinhoyi Shop, Electrical Appliances, Furniture Reduced To Ashes

A South African-bound Good Riders Tours bus caught fire and was burnt to a shell while parked at the Kwekwe Intercity Bus Terminus.
The <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/south-african-bound-cross-border-bus-burns-to-a-shell/">Chronicle</a> reported that the Kwekwe City fire department did not despatch fire tenders to douse the flames, and the Redcliff Municipality fire tender only arrived after about 45 minutes.
Fortunately, there were no passengers on board when the bus went up in smoke on Friday morning.
An informal trader who plies his trade at the rank identified as Victor Dube said:
<blockquote>
We saw smoke coming out of the parked bus before it caught fire which started from the back seat and started spreading across the whole bus. There was nothing we could do as the fire was moving fast.
</blockquote>
Kwekwe Mayor Councillor Albert Zinhanga said they were still trying to ascertain what transpired. He said:
<blockquote>
We would like to acknowledge all the complaints and frustration from residents regarding the bus incident that happened earlier today.
It is indeed regrettable. We want to assure you residents that we are going to get to the bottom of this issue.
We feel your pain, anger, and frustration. We are busy compiling reports from different stakeholders regarding this incident. As soon as we finish we will inform you.
We must protect properties in the city. We will not hide behind a finger. I however appeal to you to allow the investigations to take place so that we find the problem and solve it.
</blockquote>
Zinhanga said the local authority has two functional fire tenders, an old one, and a new one bought by the Government from Belarus.
Recently, Calvary Sports Bar in Amaveni was razed by a fire and again, the Kwekwe City fire brigade was nowhere to be seen.
In 2022, a fire gutted doctors’ residences at Kwekwe General Hospital and the fire tender arrived without water and the firefighters could not locate hydrants.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

South African-Bound Bus Burns To A Shell In Kwekwe

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed a tragic incident in which two children, all under the age of five, were burnt to death after they were left unattended by the grandmother who had gone to the garden.
In a statement, police said the incident occurred at Chikona Village, Chimanimani District, Manicaland Province, on Monday, 06 November. Said the ZRP:
<blockquote>
The ZRP confirms a fire incident in which two female juveniles aged 4 and 1 year 6 months died while another female juvenile (3) sustained burns after one of the victims lit a fire that razed a grass thatched bathroom to ashes at Chikona Village, Chimanimani on 06/11/23.
The victims had been left playing by their grandmother who had gone to the garden.
</blockquote>
Police added that the bodies of the deceased were taken to Mutambara Mission Hospital for post-mortem.
The injured was ferried to Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital in Mutare where she was admitted.
Here are some essential tips to help protect children from fires:
<ul>
<li>Explain to children the dangers of fire and how it can spread quickly. Tell them to never play with matches or flammable materials.</li>
<li>Store matches in a secure place inaccessible to children, such as locked cabinets or high shelves.</li>
<li>In the event a child’s clothing catches fire, make sure they know to stop, drop to the ground, cover their face, and roll until the fire is extinguished.</li>
<li>Never leave children unattended in the kitchen while cooking; keep them away from open flames.</li>
<li>Store flammable substances (e.g., hand sanitisers, paraffin and gas) safely and out of children’s reach to prevent accidents.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two Children Burnt To Death After Granny Left Them Unattended

A fire broke out at the University of Zimbabwe main campus in Mt Pleasant on Friday morning and destroyed the Physics Department block.
Social media platforms were awash with pictures that showed the building on fire.
Posting on X, Mount Pleasant MP Fadzayi Mahere (CCC), who is also the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Technology Development, said:
<blockquote>
Earlier today, I received a saddening report that a fire broke out at the Physics Department at the University of Zimbabwe.
Students who were at the scene suspect the fire broke out due to naked wires although the exact cause was not immediately clear.
Students panicked as the Fire Department battled to calm the raging flames.
This tragedy could not have come at a worse time for students who are already reeling under a fees crisis, outdated infrastructure, and inadequate equipment &amp; resources at the State’s biggest tertiary institution.
</blockquote>
The incident comes just a week after another fire engulfed a building at the corner of Cameroon Street and Fidel Castro Road (formerly Charter) in Harare’s Central Business District.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fire Damages University Of Zimbabwe Physics Department Block

The City of Harare has blamed a crowd and shop owners for the late response by the fire brigade in putting out a fire that engulfed a building at the corner of Cameroon Street and Fidel Castro Road (formerly Charter) on Wednesday afternoon.
In a statement, the local authority said anti-riot police were later deployed to the scene to disperse a “big crowd” that had gathered there and had blocked firefighters from accessing the building.
It also said that when the fire started, the shop owners did not immediately alert the fire brigade. The City of Harare said:
<blockquote>
There was a huge fire at a shop at the corner of Cameroon Street and Fidel Castro Road (formerly Charter) which started just before 2 p.m.
The property was extensively damaged. Our fire brigade was initially blocked from accessing the building by a big crowd gathered there.
The firefighters had to engage Anti-riot police to disperse the crowd.
The firemen then accessed the building after some time and by then the fire had caused extensive damage. 
The fire brigade however managed to control the fire. 
It also turns out that the shop owners took time to inform the fire brigade of the fire, judging by the amount of goods they managed to take out before the fire escalated.
What caused the fire is still a subject of investigation by the fire brigade team. 
The City would want to warn residents against blocking our firefighters from doing their work.
It is also dangerous for people to go so close to such fire situations.
</blockquote>
On Thursday, Harare Mayor His Worship Cllr Ian Makone visited the building that was destroyed by the fire and spoke to some of the owners.
The Fire Department is still investigating what caused the fire which destroyed property worth millions of dollars.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Bystanders Blamed For Fire Brigade's Late Response To Harare CBD Inferno

Representatives from the Embassy of Zimbabwe in South Africa on Saturday visited the Diepkloof Forensic Pathology Services to establish the status of Zimbabweans believed to have died in a fire in central Johannesburg last week.
South African online publication <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/gauteng/joburg-fire-death-toll-rises-to-77-as-zimbabwean-and-malawian-diplomats-visit-victims-83d2d06c-54cc-485e-ad62-b4a57da61a7e">IOL</a> reported that the death toll from the hijacked Usindiso Building which caught fire on Thursday has now risen to 77 after one of the victims rescued from fire died in hospital.
Gauteng Department of Health’s spokesperson Motalatale Modiba was quoted as saying that more than 30 patients are still being treated in different facilities in the province. Said Modiba:
<blockquote>
Out of the 88 patients that were seen at various health facilities – Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, Helen Joseph Hospital, South Rand Hospital, Tembisa Hospital, Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital and Hillbrow Community Health Centre – only 31 people are still receiving care.
Of the 31 patients in admission, only five still need semi-critical care however, they are fully awake.
The admitted patients are not impacting on the normal flow of trauma patients in facilities.
</blockquote>
Modida also revealed that authorities are conducting post-mortems on 74 bodies that were burnt in the apartheid-era Central Pass Office. He said:
<blockquote>
As more families come forth to report their loved ones who might have perished in the fire incident, the Gauteng Department of Health can confirm that it is on track to complete conducting post-mortems on the 74 deceased bodies.
By Saturday evening, the pathologist had done post-mortems on 58 bodies and were only left with 16 to be concluded on Sunday (today).
There are 62 unidentifiable bodies at the Diepkloof Forensic Pathology Services mortuary and 12 identifiable corpses.
</blockquote>
Modiba also said 40 families have so far visited the facility to report their loved ones which has resulted in a line list of 66 names that possibly died in the fire being developed. He said:
<blockquote>
Nine families have already identified their loved ones from the 12 identifiable bodies.
Once the families conclude the necessary processes and produce the required identification documents the mortal remains will be released to them for burial.
</blockquote>
The building at 80 Albert Street which fire last Thursday resulting in multiple deaths is owned by the City of Joburg.
It is situated on the corner of Delvers Street and was officially opened in 1954 as the “Non-European Affairs Department” and served as the Central Pass Office.
The building previously housed the Usindiso Ministries Women’s Shelter before it was hijacked by syndicates.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Diplomats Visit Johannesburg Fire Victims As Death Rises To 77

A petrol storage tank caught fire and exploded at a fuel storage depot in the Kelvin West industrial area in Bulawayo on Saturday.
The raging fire burnt several vehicles to shells and sent passersby both motorists and pedestrians along Khami Road fleeing in sheer terror.
<a href="https://www.sundaynews.co.zw/bulawayo-fuel-storage-depot-explodes/">The Sunday News</a> reported that besides the storage tank, a fuel tanker belonging to a company identified as Multi-movers was reduced to a shell.
One of the owners of the truck only identified as Admire said the tank was about to load fuel at the depot when it caught fire.
The fuel storage depot is located along Khami Road next to the District Development Fund now RIDA depot at Kelvin West.
The depot is operated by a company identified as Cleaver Investment.
It took the fire brigade about 30 minutes to extinguish the fire after having waited 30 minutes to move in saying it was too risky to get close to the fire.
When the inferno had been put out, people started taking away property from offices as well as cars within the premises.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fuel Storage Depot Catches Fire In Bulawayo

A reported 15 vehicles were destroyed by fire at Top Gear Panel Beaters, a garage in Marondera town’s industrial sites, on Thursday night.
The vehicles were awaiting service and repairs and were parked inside the building when the fire, whose cause is yet to be ascertained, broke out.
<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/15-cars-destroyed-by-fire-at-garage/">The Herald</a> reported sources as saying the Marondera fire brigade could not attend to the fire as its single fire tender was away for service.
A fire engine was despatched from Harare but by the time it arrived at the scene of the fire, the garage and the cars within it had been destroyed.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) deputy spokesperson in Mashonaland East Province Assistant Inspector Misheck Denhere could not give the the exact number of vehicles destroyed.
However, sources close to investigations said more than 15 vehicles were destroyed in the inferno.
One of the residents of Marondera, Ralph Chimanikire, said the fire incident was tragic, adding that the Marondera Municipality needs to be capacitated. He said:
<blockquote>
We are pained by this tragedy which has affected this young entrepreneur who was working here.
I am one of his clients. The unfortunate part is they could not get help to extinguish this fire. It is very unfortunate.
Something has to be done by Marondera Municipality so that they become proactive and react to issues like this one. 
We are so worried; a lot of vehicles have been destroyed. If only assistance had come in time, some vehicles were going to be saved.
</blockquote>
A witness, Cecilia Chiwara, who lives near the garage, told The Herald that alerted the fire brigade about the fire and was told that they did not have equipment to assist. She said:
<blockquote>
I first saw some smoke in the building and I immediately called the owner of the garage and told him about the fire.
I then rushed to the fire and ambulance site which is about 100 metres from the garage, and they told me that they did not have any vehicle to use.
I then called Harare’s fire department and they responded and by the time they got here, the fire had already destroyed all the vehicles in the building.
</blockquote>
Marondera Municipality public relations officer Kudakwashe Tapfumaneyi released a statement on 01 September following the fire incident. It reads:
<blockquote>
The Municipality of Marondera would like to inform Marondera residents and stakeholders that there was a fire outbreak at the Top Gear Panel Beaters in the industrial area last night.
The fire damaged cars and other property that was within the garage. The Council fire tender was out on routine service and could not be used to respond to the accident.
However, Council enlisted the assistance of the Harare City emergency services who managed to attend to the accident.
Council is liaising with the Police and other authorities to try to determine the cause of the fire outbreak. Details of the cause of the outbreak will be released to the public once investigations are concluded. 
Marondera Municipality is expecting to receive a new fire tender from the new fleet of fire tenders that were recently commissioned by His Excellency the President, D. ED Mnangagwa following their procurement from Belarus.
The new fire tender will be a good addition to our emergency vehicle fleet which currently only has one fire tender. 
Council would like to express its heartfelt sympathy to all those who lost their property due to the fire incident.
Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to remain calm while authorities carry out the necessary investigations.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula </a>

15 Vehicles Awaiting Service Destroyed By Fire

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is investigating a fire incident which occurred on Wednesday in <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Beitbridge">Beitbridge</a> in which twin sisters died.
In a report seen by Pindula News, police said the twin sisters were burnt beyond recognition after the fire erupted at Impala Extension suburb, Beitbridge. Reads the report:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is investigating circumstances surrounding a fire incident which occurred on 08/03/23 at around 0045 hours at Impala Extension suburb, Beitbridge where twin sisters, Everjoy Chapasuka (30) and Sandra Chapasuka (30) were burnt beyond recognition when the cottage they were sleeping in caught fire following an explosion which was allegedly heard by neighbours.
</blockquote>
Some common causes of fires at home:
Fires can cause explosions in homes due to gas leaks, faulty electrical wiring, chemical reactions, combustible materials, open flames, and cooking accidents.
Safety measures:
To prevent these incidents, it is important to have safety measures in place and regularly maintain gas appliances and electrical systems.
These safety measures include installing smoke detectors, practising safe cooking habits, and having gas appliances and electrical systems regularly inspected and maintained by professionals.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Twin Sisters Die In Beitbridge Fire

The theatre recovery room at Beitbridge District Hospital was gutted by fire around 10 AM on Monday, 23 January.
Equipment and infrastructure worth an estimated US$3.5 million was destroyed in the inferno.
The 20-room theatre complex normally carries out an average of five small theatre operations a day, including around 30 Caesarian deliveries a month.
Beitbridge District Medical Officer (DMO) Dr Lenos Samhere said they are urgently seeking replacement equipment and stores from the provincial hospital in Gwanda so that it can resume work quickly. He said:
<blockquote>
The situation is very bad, we are now just like an ordinary clinic without a theatre.
So, as a stop-gap measure, we are mobilising equipment from the provincial hospital in Gwanda so that we may in the interim use the small theatre in our out-patients department to handle critical cases.
With the help of other local technocrats from the Public Works Department, we are investigating the cause of the fire and compiling a bill of quantities on what we would need to get the theatre working again.
</blockquote>
No one was injured since the medical staff was still preparing the facility ahead of scheduled procedures.
The operating theatre nurse who was the first to notice the fire, Sister Patience Bere, said she was preparing for surgery when she saw smoke billowing out of the recovery room. She said:
<blockquote>
I rushed to inspect the origins of the smoke and saw that it was coming from one of the electrical beds in the recovery room.
I alerted the hospital management who then called in the fire services department who contained the fire.
Fortunately, some patients who had come for surgery were still outside the building and it was easy to move them to a safer place.
</blockquote>
Beitbridge’s Head of Emergency and Fire Services, George Maseko said the cause of the fire was still under investigation. He said:
<blockquote>
It took us less than seven minutes to contain the fire after picking up its source.
However, the theatre recovery room which had several items of delicate equipment was extensively damaged.
We had to strategically manage the fire so that it could not spread to the other 19 rooms within the theatre.
You will note that most equipment and consumables were adversely affected by the heat and the smoke.
</blockquote>
The local head of the Department of Public Works, Admore Tlou, said they had started working on assessing the structural damages to the building.
Beitbridge District Hospital is a referral centre for nearly 300 000 residents in the town and the surrounding rural area of the district.
The 140-bed hospital sees 350 babies delivered each month. | <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/fire-destroys-beitbridge-hospital-theatre-2/">The Herald</a>

Fire Destroys Beitbridge District Hospital Theatre

Three gardeners employed at Manna Resort in Harare are facing theft allegations following a fire incident at the lodge on 1 November.
The three men allegedly took advantage of the incident to steal US$2 500 cash from Netty Musasa’s office.
Zacharia Phiri, Richman Kamusasa and Simon Vhiya are expected to appear at the Harare Magistrates Court charged with theft.
According to a statement issued Manna Resort CEO on 2 November 2022, part of the Manna Resorts complex was struck by lightning which resulted in a fire.
The fire affected PaSangano Lifestyle Centre and parts of Panzvimbo and Tata accommodation facilities. | <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/manna-resort-fire-3-gardeners-in-court-for-theft/">The Herald</a>

3 Gardeners Take Advantage Of Manna Resort Fire To Steal Cash

A bolt of lightning struck a section of the upmarket Manna Resort in Harare on Tuesday afternoon, reducing property worth millions of dollars to ashes.
Two buildings were also destroyed in the fire which took firefighters more than an hour to extinguish.
The Panzvimbo/Sangano section, which houses a kitchen and accommodation was reduced to a shell by the fire. Part of the section had been opened just three months ago.
Fortunately, none of the workers on duty were injured.
ZRP national spokesperson, Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has received a report of a fire at Manna Resort located in Glen Lorne.
Details of the damage will be released in due course.
</blockquote>
One of the workers who spoke to <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/lightning-strikes-upmarket-resort/">H-Metro</a> but is not authorised to speak to the press said:
<blockquote>
I am not allowed to speak to the Press, but the lightning was so terrifying.
Kana mazogara mheni yakaipa. Munguva pfupi Panzvimbo yose yanga yasanganiswa nemoto tikatiza tichidedera. (A lightning strike is terrifying. In a very short space of time, the whole area had caught fire. We ran away trembling with fear.
We looked in disbelief as the fire burnt the thatched roofs.
Nothing could be recovered as we were all shocked and scared.
</blockquote>
The resort’s general manager said his team was yet to calculate the value of the loss they suffered.

Lightning Strikes Luxury Lodge In Harare

An accountant with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education in Chipinge lost all his household property after his four-roomed cottage was razed by fire on Wednesday morning.
Maxwell Dumba of Kelvin suburb told <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/new-fire-leaves-chipinge-family-homeless/">The Manica Post</a> that the fire started after he had left for work. He said:
<blockquote>
I left my home early in the morning to go to work as usual at Chipinge Government Complex. There was no electricity as a result of the ongoing power cuts. My wife was also not around.
While at work at around 8:30 AM, I received a call from my builders working on the main house, telling me that there was smoke coming from my cottage. Power had been restored.
I called the fire brigade which reacted swiftly, but they had a torrid time reaching my house as the shorter route is not accessible due to the poor road network.
They failed to cross a makeshift bridge on that road and had to use a longer route; otherwise, we could have managed to salvage something from the house.
</blockquote>
He said he was only left with the clothes he was wearing.
Dumba is now appealing for assistance from well-wishers. Those willing to assist can contact him on 0773221186.

Civil Servant Loses All Property In House Fire

Wheat valued at close to US$800 000 was destroyed by fire in 20 separate incidents last week, with authorities and farmers putting the blame on arsonists in most of the cases.
Agritex extension officers deployed to assess the damage caused by the fires noted that most of the fires started inside the wheat fields thus pointing to possible sabotage.
Chief director for Agriculture and Rural Development Advisory Services, Obert Jiri, said:
<blockquote>
After our extension officers’ inspections, it was clear that in most cases, the fires were not from the veld but started infield, pointing to possible sabotage, and we want our farmers to be on the lookout.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Farmers Union executive director, Paul Zakariya, said the high number of wheat fields that have been affected by fires this year is unusual. Said Zakariya:
<blockquote>
This is the first-ever season we have had such high numbers of fires in wheat fields.
There is suspicion that some disgruntled elements might want to disrupt the projected bumper harvest.
We need to act collectively to counter such people.
</blockquote>
Pieter Gertenbach, a Mvurwi farmer, lost a 35-hectare wheat field to fire at his Pembi Chase Farm.
The crop was supported by the Presidential Inputs Scheme and Gertenbach believes the fire was an act of sabotage. He said:
<blockquote>
This is an act of sabotage, no doubt about it. Some people are deliberately trying to fight the President’s efforts to improve agriculture.
This was not a wild veld fire that started out of nowhere; the fire started from within the field.
</blockquote>
Benedict Chagumuka of Machewe Farm in Mvurwi who lost 15 hectares of wheat to a fire last week also claimed the fire started in the middle of the field. He said:
<blockquote>
The fire started in the middle of the field. After inspecting the field, I could tell the source of the fire. Sadly, I did not have insurance for the crop.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/fire-destroys-us800k-wheat">The Sunday Mail</a>

Fire Destroys US$800k Wheat, Farmers Blame Saboteurs

The Environmental Management Agency (EMA) says more than one million hectares of forests and farmland have been destroyed by veld fires over a three-month period. The fires have killed 16 people during the same period.
EMA environment education and publicity manager Amkela Sidange said that overall, 6 042 incidences of veld fires have so far been recorded, compared to 3 673 in 2021. This represents a 64.5% increase.
Sidange revealed that the average burnt area per incident has risen to the current 253.5 hectares from 234 hectares in 2021. <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/new-one-million-hectares-destroyed-by-fire">She was quoted as saying:</a>
<blockquote>
Week-on-week, burnt area trends indicate that the 2022 fire restriction has kept a constant upward trend compared to the 2021 fire season.
This is attributed to the dry and windy conditions that are prevailing in the country, and this has persisted for longer than usual, a possible indication of shifts in seasons due to climatic change.
</blockquote>
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa recently told the Senate that the government is considering amending the Environmental Management Act so that people who carelessly start veld fires are punished severely.
This follows the death of ten people on Monday who died while trying to put out a veld fire at Rodrose Farm in Esigodini, Matabeleland South Province.
In August this year, an 80-year-old security guard from Plumstead Farm, Banket, was killed by a runaway veld fire and his corpse charred beyond recognition.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said the now-deceased, Sakatiza Mariza, was on his way home from his workplace when he was burnt.
In 2019, a Bindura farmer was sentenced to 18 months in prison by Magistrate Moreblessing Makati for starting a veld fire that burnt another farmer’s inputs and properties worth around ZWL$16 000.
Wicklow Handiroya (67) of Ledbury Farm in Bindura started the fire on his property to clear land for the upcoming summer cropping season.

One Million Hectares Destroyed By Fire - EMA

The government is considering amending the Environmental Management Act so that people who carelessly start veld fires are punished severely.
Speaking in the Senate on Thursday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said that Cabinet is seized with the matter. She said:
<blockquote>
I understood what the chief said that traditional courts deal with these cases but when cases like those of arson are brought to the magistrates’ courts, they are not dealt with in a just manner, especially considering that such people would have destroyed people’s lives and property.
This Act will have to be looked into so that it comes back to the August House to ascertain whether the law is prohibitive, but we need to ascertain whether the law is punitive enough so that when people have participated in arson, then they will be deterred by heavy sentences.
I am going to engage the Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Honourable (Ziyambi) Ziyambi so that the Act should be looked at.
Even the Attorney-General should look at the law and the law will be brought to this august House so that it is reviewed or amended. Cabinet is really seized with the matter.
We spoke at length concerning the issue and the suggestion will be taken up to Cabinet but we emphasise and we understand this issue.
</blockquote>
On Monday, ten people died while trying to put out a veld fire at Rodrose Farm in Esigodini, Matabeleland South Province. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002017/govt-gets-tough-on-veld-fires">NewsDay</a>

Arsonists To Get Stiffer Sentences

Ten (10) people died on Monday and at least five others were treated for smoke inhalation at a farm in Esigodini, Matabeleland South Province while trying to put out a raging veldt fire.
Police officers were dispatched to a farm known as Lot 43 of Essexvale, near Falcon College, after reports of multiple people succumbing to a wildfire.
10 bodies, most of them farm workers, were recovered while five others who took part in fighting the fire survived and were taken to hospital as a precaution.
Environmental Management Agency (EMA) regional manager Descent Ndlovu told <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/10/10-farm-workers-killed-while-battling-veld-fire-in-esigodini/">ZimLive</a> that he was alerted of the tragedy while he was in Gwanda. He said:
<blockquote>
I understand from our people on the ground that there’re lives that have been lost and I’m distressed by the situation. What I understand is that there are 10 deaths.
</blockquote>
Witnesses said the fire started during strong winds sometime in the morning.
The farm’s owner Abel Moyo then asked his farm workers and others from surrounding farms to put out the fire.
A villager who claimed he knew all the dead by name said:
<blockquote>
One by one, they began getting disoriented from smoke inhalation and they died. It’s such a sad situation, they were only trying to help.
</blockquote>
The Meteorological Services Department (MSD) on Sunday warned members of the public of the dangers of veld fires. It said in a bulletin:
<blockquote>
Strong winds increase the occurrence of veldt fires. Put out any fires found in open veld and road-sides. Do not leave any fire unattended.
</blockquote>

10 Farm Workers Die While Fighting Veld Fire In Esigodini

Glen View North MP, Fani Munengami (MDC Alliance) has castigated the government for allegedly failing to address recurring fires at Glen View Area 8 Furniture Complex.
The complex was established in 2000 by the government and accommodates small to medium enterprises.
Furniture worth thousands of dollars has been lost in the fires and a suspected electrical fault ignited an inferno on 7 September 2022.
Speaking in Parliament recently, Munengami said that if the root cause of the Glenview 8 Furniture Complex fires is not addressed, lives could be lost. He said:
<blockquote>
I stand up with a burning issue which I believe if it is not resolved, might end up in the loss of lives.
Every year in Glen View Area 8, at the Home Industries where a lot of furniture is manufactured, there are fire outbreaks.
Nothing has been done so far by Government to intervene so that fires are prevented.
As I am speaking, 80% of the complex was razed down.
We are grateful that there was no loss of life but Glen View Area 8 residents and other people who work in that area are not able to work at the moment.
</blockquote>
On Sunday, 09 October 2022, another devastating fire engulfed the complex and destroyed property worth thousands of dollars.
Munengami expressed disappointment that the Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small And Medium Enterprises Development, Sithembiso Nyoni, failed to visit the complex in the aftermath of the fire that broke out last month. He said:
<blockquote>
I spoke to the Minister of Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to come and inspect Glen View Area 8 before we have a national disaster because there is a service station next to the complex.
Every year there are fire outbreaks but we do not know whether it is arson or what, but we know that there are cotton sacks, planks, wood shavings and other things which are highly flammable.
If this is left unattended, one day we will end up losing lives.
So my request is that the Minister of SMEs should visit the complex and other stakeholders.
However, the Hon. Minister is not visiting the complex. We do not know how we can be helped with this issue.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://openparly.com/glenview-legislator/">OpenParly</a>

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