Communities in Lobamba have been urged to take an active role in preventing fire disasters as the country enters the dry season.

The call was made during a fire awareness campaign held at Lobamba Inkhundla, which brought together government departments, emergency services, traditional leadership and community members to strengthen preparedness and reduce the risk of fire disasters.

The campaign was organised through a collaboration involving Ezulwini Municipality, the National Disaster Risk Management Authority (NDRMA) – Ümvalo Wesive, Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Rescue Services,

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Department of Forestry, Royal Eswatini Police Service, Eswatini Environment Authority and Lobamba Inkhundla.

The initiative focused on equipping communities with knowledge and practical measures to prevent fires,

while encouraging residents to take responsibility for protecting lives, property and the environment.

Community members were encouraged to clear vegetation responsibly, report fires as soon as they are detected, follow official warnings and remain alert to the safety of their neighbours.

Stakeholders emphasised that simple actions taken at household and community level could prevent fires from spreading and reduce the devastating losses that often accompany uncontrolled fires.

Minister for Housing and Urban Development Apollo Maphalala, who represented Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla,

joined government representatives, traditional leaders, emergency services, stakeholders and community members during the programme.

The campaign also highlighted the importance of cooperation between communities and institutions responsible for disaster management.