Combating Bush Fires
Combating Bush Fires
08 April 2013
published by www.allafrica.com
Gambia — At the moment many parts of the bush in the country have been destroyed by fire outbreaks.
We are very much concerned about this since the issue of bush fires is becoming a cause for concern and common phenomenon, especially in the rural areas.
Despite a series of sensitisation campaigns being conducted by the Forestry Department and its partners in the communities, it seems more needs to be done to tackle the menace.
As previously stated in this and other pages of this paper, the effects of bush fires are many and severe for both humans and animals.
We, therefore, urge the authorities to intensify their efforts in creating awareness among our people, particularly, those in the rural areas where the menace of bush fires are common.
It requires concerted efforts by all and sundry to address the issue with seriousness.
Our local authorities, such as chiefs, councillors and alkalolu should also help, as well as community-based organisations (CBOs) in their various communities in creating awareness on the effects of bush fires.
It is very sad that the effects of bush fire can be seen across the country, especially in the up-country.
We call on the local authorities to bring to book those who are in the habits of causing deliberate bushfires, as its impacts have adverse effects on the environment, which in turn has severe consequences on the socio-economic development of the country, particularly, at a time the world is grappling with the effects of climate change.
We need to put together combined efforts to protect and preserve our environment for the benefit of generations yet unborn.
