LIMPOPO – The Letaba Fire Protection Association (LFPA) has concluded 2025 on a strong note, marking a year defined by heightened preparedness, strengthened community partnerships, and improved fire management outcomes across the region.

A year of improved fire readiness

Focused on both prevention and rapid response, LFPA’s efforts contributed to a noticeable reduction in uncontrolled fires and property damage across the region.

This year saw a strong emphasis on training and skills development. A total of 167 community members and landowners completed firefighting courses, ranging from basic firefighting to advanced Fire Boss training, ensuring that members on the ground are better prepared for high-risk fire conditions.

In a major milestone, LFPA acquired a dedicated firefighting vehicle with a skid unit and a four-member trained team who successfully assisted in multiple fire incidents.

Their involvement took a proactive turn in working with community peanut growers, who historically had challenges with uncontrolled burns. LFPA provided special burning permits, resources, and on-site support.

Fire response efforts were supported through effective communication channels, enabling the faster mobilisation of stakeholders and the coordination of firefighting resources. The LFPA team, together with various Mopani Region Emergency Services, attended approximately 40 uncontrolled fires this season.

LFPA encourages community members interested in joining firefighting volunteer work to contact the team directly for involvement opportunities.

Appreciation for partners

Support for firefighting efforts extended further when the Limpopo Umbrella Fire Protection Association facilitated the donation of 50 veldfire blowers through the Agri Relief Foundation, an important boost for regional fire protection associations.

LFPA community liaison Nicole Ramokone and partners from disaster management, forestry, and environmental agencies visited schools and local communities to raise awareness about fire safety, NVFF Act regulations and the importance of compliant firebreaks.

LFPA noted gratitude for the skilled pilots and ground crews who remain on standby for high-risk situations.

LFPA teams also participated in public engagement events, including the Haenertsburg Winter Festival and Tzaneen Round Table Warmfees, showcasing firefighting equipment, raising awareness, and collecting donations of blankets and food for vulnerable community members.

As a membership-driven organisation, LFPA continues to encourage landowners within the Letaba region to join and benefit from coordinated fire risk management, training support, and guidance on compliant firebreaks.

Registration information is available through the LFPA administration office.

At the close of the year, LFPA extends appreciation to farmers, landowners, community partners, volunteers, and support services for their cooperation and teamwork throughout the year, and wishes the region a safe festive season ahead.