By Tebogo Mabidilala
Acting Deputy Director disaster risk management from LDARD Funzani Makananisi
The Limpopo Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (LDARD), through the Mopani West Agro-Ecological Zone, hosted an Integrated Disaster Management Awareness Campaign at Nkowankowa Community Hall in Greater Tzaneen Local Municipality.
Acting Deputy Director Landcare and Landuse management Tshidi Baloyi from Mopani District giving purpose of the day.
The campaign was aimed at strengthening farmers’ preparedness for natural disasters, with a specific focus on the increased risk of veld fires during the winter season. Disaster risk assessments have identified Greater Tzaneen as one of the area’s most vulnerable to veld fire outbreaks. This highlights the need for proactive fire prevention measures to protect lives, livestock, and agricultural production.
Addressing farmers, Mopani Disaster Management Centre official Mr. Pheagane Makgopa urged producers to remain vigilant by maintaining firebreaks, acquiring firefighting equipment, and implementing effective veld fire prevention strategies.
Members of working on fire team teaching farmers how to combat veld fires.
Ms. Tshidi Baloyi from Mopani West reminded farmers that the Mopani District was severely affected by floods earlier this year. She emphasised the importance of disaster preparedness and building climate resilience. Firefighters on site also demonstrated fire prevention techniques and emergency response procedures.
Pheagane Makgopa from Mopani district municipality disaster management Center interacting with farmers.
LDARD official Ms. Funzani Makananisi outlined the post-disaster recovery and relief support available to affected farmers. She encouraged producers to monitor weather forecasts and early warning alerts. Poultry farmers were advised to safeguard their flocks during severe weather. Farmers were also reminded to report disaster-related damages at their nearest LDARD office.
The campaign forms part of LDARD’s ongoing commitment to building resilient farming communities and protecting Limpopo’s agricultural sector from climate-related disasters.
Farmers attending disaster management awareness campaign at Nkowa-nkowa community hall.
