The Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority has initiated a project to make cut lines in farming areas to break veld fires when they occur.
The project aims to protect grazing areas and homesteads from veld fire outbreaks.

The cut lines will be made in selected farming areas under its jurisdiction with the assistance of the community on a voluntary basis.

The Acting Elenga of Uukolonkadhi Traditional Authority Malakia Shoombe said veld fires have in the past caused extensive damage to grazing land and property.

"These cutlines are really aimed at preventing the spread of fires from different areas, and it is a form of a mitigating factor, and that's why the traditional authority is spearheading this initiative."

Shoombe also emphasised that grazing areas don't have much grass and vegetation due to poor rainfall received over the past rainy seasons. 

"Cutlines are very important and significant during this season, and some of our areas have already recorded outbreaks of veld fires which were hard to contain and ended up causing extensive damage. This grass is all out livestock have, and if it doesn't rain well, it will be a problem. Our people rely on their livestock for an income and to assist their families; hence, we made this call, and our people came out to assist."

The community is encouraged to take part.

"We are also busy creating a pathway for our vehicles to navigate the terrains here. We are happy that our traditional authority has initiated this. I am urging all young and old to assist wherever they can and ensure that they contribute through various means to projects that affect their communities, urged Veld Fire Prevention Volunteer Loide Mapule.