A series of seven devastating wildfires that swept through Vrede, Memel, and Verkykerskop in the Free State has left local farmers reeling. The fires claimed vast tracts of farmland, livestock, and infrastructure. In response, Free State Agriculture (FSA) swiftly mobilised its grassroots structures to coordinate relief efforts.
“We stepped in immediately to help coordinate firefighting operations,” said Wicus van der Merwe, secretary and chief fire assistance coordinator of the Memel Farmers Association (MFA).
FSA has transferred R100 000 from the Free State Agriculture Disaster Fund to the MFA and arranged for two truckloads of animal feed to be delivered today and tomorrow. The MFA will oversee the distribution of these resources to affected members.
Tragically, the fires claimed the life of an 80-year-old woman, while her husband is recovering in hospital with burn injuries. “Our deepest condolences go out to the Le Roux family. We also sympathise with the farmers who have suffered tremendous losses,” Van der Merwe said.
Preliminary reports indicate that some farmers have lost as many as 500 sheep and 300 cattle.
The full extent of the damage, including the destruction of buildings, vehicles, equipment, and infrastructure such as fences and water troughs, will be clearer after satellite images are processed in the coming days.
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At a meeting this week, MFA planned further relief efforts and gathered more detailed information. “We’re waiting for satellite images to determine the precise area affected,” Van der Merwe explained, noting that these images will only be available after seven days.
However, questions remain about the deployment of firefighting teams. Van der Merwe expressed uncertainty about whether Working on Fire teams were mobilised during the fires.
Vehicle shortage hinders firefighting response
The North Eastern Free State Firefighting Association later confirmed that the withdrawal of Kishugu vehicles led to the Memel team being unable to deploy in time. “It was only the next day that farmers fetched the teams to assist with mop-up operations,” Van der Merwe said.
The shortage of firefighting vehicles is a long-standing concern. “We’ve raised this issue with political leaders before, but old WoF vehicles are still sitting idle at local municipalities, awaiting redeployment,” said Kempen Nel, chairperson of FSA’s natural resources committee.
He noted that despite recent rains, the fire season is far from over, and the mismanagement of state resources is unacceptable.
Local farming communities have been inundated with calls and donations, according to Martinus Willemse, chairperson of MFA. “The support has been overwhelming, and we are deeply grateful.”
For those who wish to donate to the Free State Agriculture Disaster Fund, contributions can be made via their website: https://vrystaatlandbou.co.za/donate/. The MFA and other associations will apply for further funds after thorough assessments in line with FSA’s disaster policy.
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