On Monday, the Bulawayo Fire Brigade was pushed to its limits as it fought three significant fires that caused extensive damage, with losses estimated in the hundreds of thousands of US dollars.
The first fire destroyed a luxury residence in Burnside, valued at approximately US$500,000. The owners, Reid Rowland and his wife, were away on holiday in Switzerland when the blaze broke out. Firefighters believe the fire started due to illegal burning nearby. Despite the efforts of seven fire tenders and 35 firefighters who battled the flames for over three hours, the house, its contents, and a vehicle were completely lost.
While still engaged at the Burnside scene, the brigade received another emergency call about Elephant Lodge, located 40 kilometers outside the city on Gwanda Road. Formerly known as Jamaica Inn and once a venue for the famous UB40 band, the lodge was engulfed in flames shortly after 2 PM. Four fire tenders and 20 firefighters worked into the evening to contain the fire, but the lodge was entirely destroyed. This marks the second time in a year that the property, owned by businessman Tony dos Santos, has been devastated by fire.
Additionally, fire crews rushed to prevent veld fires from spreading to Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, averting what could have been a disastrous situation.
Bulawayo Chief Fire Officer Mhlangano Moyo explained that the Burnside fire originated from a neighboring plot where vegetation was being cleared using fire, which quickly got out of control. The area, known as Ward Four, is prone to frequent fire outbreaks. Last year, a city fire tender was lost responding to a fire in the same vicinity. Moyo noted that although one structure was lost, firefighters managed to save two others and nearby properties including Whitestone School and the Dabane Water Trust.
Local resident and Ward Four fire representative Baye Pigars confirmed that the blaze was likely caused by refuse burning on a newly purchased stand. She emphasized the difficulty in controlling fires in this high-risk zone, especially with strong winds fueling the flames.
The Environmental Management Authority (EMA) reminded the public of Statutory Instrument 7 of 2007, which mandates strict fire prevention measures for landowners and users. Violations can result in fines or imprisonment. EMA spokesperson Amkela Sidange urged residents to refrain from lighting fires outside their properties, highlighting that such actions are illegal and dangerous, especially as many people clear urban farm spaces using fire.
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