Windhoek records decline in veld and shack fires 

By: Ritta Lotto

Windhoek Fire Brigade senior station officer, Fillipus Sikongo, says the city has recorded a decline in veld and informal settlement fires compared to last year.  

Speaking to NewsOnOne earlier this week, Sikongo said the reduction is due to ongoing community fire safety awareness campaigns, educational outreach and improved fire prevention practices by farmers. 

Sikongo said to further reduce fire incidents; farmers have been encouraged to carry out pre-burns ahead of the fire season and report fires to emergency services as soon as they break out, allowing firefighters to contain them before they spread. 

He said that the fire brigade is continuing the rollout of early smoke detection and warning systems in informal settlements, including installing smoke detectors and applying fire-retardant paint to selected structures. 

The city’s spokesperson, Lydia Amutenya said the City is maintaining regular monitoring of fire-prone areas, managing vegetation and continuing public awareness campaigns to minimise the risk of fires during the dry winter season. 

Sikongo has also urged residents to practise fire safety by avoiding open flames, illegal electrical connections, and unattended candles.  

He has encouraged the wider public to report fires immediately by calling the Windhoek Fire Brigade on emergency number 061 211 111. 

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