By Ncaba Ntshakala
Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla has called on residents near the Shiselweni Forest Company (SFC) to exercise caution and responsibility when using fire.
The DPM was speaking at the Prevention of Forest Fires, Stock Theft, and Theft of Fence Awareness Campaign held at Maseyisini Inkhundla on Friday.
Dladla emphasized the devastating impact of forest fires on both commercial forests and residential areas.
“The forest industry is one of the major businesses in the country and everyone should make sure that they do not burn them,” Dladla stated. “In the near future, your children will be employed by the forest company as well.”
She highlighted the economic importance of the forest industry, noting that many residents are employed by the Shiselweni Forest Company and rely on it to support their families.
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The campaign was a response to significant financial losses the company has suffered in recent years due to forest fires.
Dladla reminded the community of their vital role in protecting these forests, which not only provide employment but also contribute significantly to the nation’s economy.
In her address, DPM also challenged forest companies to engage more with local communities.
She urged these companies to create dialogues with residents and involve them in forest business activities, particularly focusing on empowering women and persons with disabilities.
Additionally, she called on the companies to enhance their corporate social responsibilities by sponsoring vulnerable children and contributing to community welfare.
The Deputy Prime Minister extended her appeal to educators, urging them to instil in their pupils an understanding of the dangers and consequences of forest fires.
“Teachers must play a pivotal role in educating the youth about fire safety to prevent future incidents,” she emphasized.
Minister for Tinkhundla Administration and Development Sikhumbuzo Dlamini also contributed to the campaign by donating E5000 towards a slogan competition for the campaign.
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He encouraged the community to develop a positive and impactful slogan to be used in future awareness efforts. Also present during the campaign were various Shiselweni Members of Parliament.
Stakeholders at the event included the National Disaster Management Agency, Royal Eswatini Police Service, Montigny Forestry, and nearby schools.
These organizations, along with community members, discussed strategies to prevent forest fires, stock theft, and fence theft, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach to tackle these issues.
Residents were urged that for emergencies or to report fires, they can reach out to the Shiselweni Forest Company on their toll-free line at 1313, and Montigny Forestry which can be contacted at 3344.
