Agri SA calls for assistance as veld fires threaten food security

Ongoing fire outbreaks in the Free State, North West and Northern Cape provinces have the federation of agricultural organisations, Agri SA, concerned about food security in South Africa. In a statement released on Wednesday, the organisation said the fires had affected over 400,000 hectares and resulted in the loss of grazing and various livestock such as sheep, cattle and wildlife that were either burnt to death or euthanised.

Agri SA chief executive officer, Christo van der Rheede said that veld fires can cause extensive damage that destroys vegetation, harms animals, and threatens communities and food security.“In response to the destruction of vegetation, emergency response efforts are needed to assist farmers with feed. However, the impact of veld fires can be felt long after the fire has been extinguished,” he said. Van der Rheede said that the damage to soil health, the disruption of ecosystems, and the alteration of natural fire patterns can also have long-lasting consequences. “The recovery process is largely dependent on rainfall. Adequate rainfall is crucial for regenerating vegetation, restoring soil fertility, and replenishing water sources. With sufficient rain, the recovery process can be significantly expedited,” Van der Rheede said.