STUDY OF FOREST FIRES MITIGATION MEASURES AT THE ADMINISTRATIVE POST OF LÚRIO, DISTRICT OF CUAMBA

Abstract

This article analyzes the application of mitigation measures in response to wildfires in the Administrative Post of Lúrio, Cuamba District, Niassa Province. Specifically, it aims to explain the causes and consequences of wildfires in Lúrio, identify mitigation measures, and explain how these measures are implemented by the community of the Administrative Post of Lúrio. It also seeks to develop an operational plan for combating wildfires with the involvement of the community. To achieve these results, the methodology used was based on semi-structured interviews, bibliographic research, observation, and visits to specialized institutions, employing a qualitative-quantitative approach with 50 participants. The cleaning of agricultural fields and hunting using fire are the main causes of wildfires in Lúrio, which have continuously threatened wildlife, flora, human life, and the well-being of the community. In other words, anthropogenic actions, characterized by wildfires, have significantly contributed to the destruction of various community assets and the degradation of the environment in general. It was found that at the local level, very little or almost nothing has been done to address or reverse this situation. Regarding the application of mitigation measures, the construction of firebreaks, associated with the practice of controlled low-intensity burns, monitoring wind direction, and managing combustible material, may be viable measures to mitigate wildfires in this region of the country. However, failure to observe the basic rules of these measures causes wildfires to continue to operate at full strength. In an attempt to address the situation, along with community representatives, it was possible to identify some measures and/or activities, such as the construction of firebreaks, the practice of controlled low-intensity burns, monitoring wind direction, and managing combustible material, which were prioritized for the prevention and mitigation of wildfires. Some of these activities were summarized in an operational plan adopted by the community itself.