Elenga-Enene of the Uukwambi Traditional Authority, Herman Iipumbu, has called for stronger community involvement and swift action to combat veld fires in the region.

Iipumbu revealed that some veld fires are deliberately started by individuals known to community members, urging residents to report the culprits.

“The veld fire outbreak at Ombuga has deeply touched all of us, and there is a need for a better-coordinated effort to respond swiftly and effectively to such fires. I spoke to someone at the site where the fire was burning, and the people who start wildfires are known. Someone was allegedly heard saying that the desert should burn so that we can all be equal.”

The traditional leader stressed that the deliberate burning of grazing land devastates livestock farmers by wiping out vital pastures.

He noted that historically, arsonists were held strictly accountable and urged fearful residents to find the courage to report these individuals to the authorities.

Iipumbu said the Traditional Authority has already begun dismantling illegal enclosures.

He disclosed that confiscated fencing poles are currently being held at the traditional authority's premises awaiting collection by their owners.

Iipumbu warned that illegal fencing not only sparks community disputes but actively cripples emergency responses to veld fires by blocking access routes and preventing the creation of effective fire cut lines.

He called to his subjects to respect communal land laws and immediately halt illegal fencing.