The country has taken an important step towards protecting its people, environment, and economy with the launch of the National Fire Preparedness, Adaptation & Response Plan (2025–2030).
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Henrik Franklin praised government, led by the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), for guiding an inclusive and evidence-based process to reach this milestone.
This was during the validation meeting for the Eswatini National Fire Preparedness, Adaptation and Response Plan held at the Hilton Garden Inn yesterday.
Earlier last year, as Eswatini intensified efforts to strengthen disaster risk management, NDMA, in collaboration with UNDP and Eswatini National Fire and Emergency Services, embarked on the development of the National Fire Preparedness and Response Plan.
The process began with an initial stakeholder engagement meeting that brought together representatives from government institutions, the private sector, civil society organisations, and communities. Their contributions and technical insights helped shape the foundation of the plan, which has now reached a key milestone with the completion of the draft document.
The validation meeting marked the next phase, allowing stakeholders to review, validate, and further strengthen the plan to ensure it is practical, evidence-based, and aligned with national priorities.
Partnership and Collaboration
Franklin also recognised the strong partnership behind the plan. Forestry companies, research institutions, faith-based and community organisations, and international partners all contributed their knowledge and experience. Their involvement ensured that the plan reflects real conditions on the ground and responds to the needs of communities most at risk.
Why the Plan Matters Now
The timing of the plan is critical. The country, like many in Southern Africa, has been experiencing heavy and persistent rainfall. While good rainfall is important for water supply and farming, the recent intensity has caused serious flooding—lives lost, homes damaged, and crops and livelihoods destroyed.
Franklin expressed condolences to families and communities affected by these floods.
There is another growing concern linked to these rains. Excessive moisture leads to rapid growth of grass and vegetation. When the dry winter season begins, this extra vegetation can become fuel for wildfires.
This means the country faces a dangerous cycle: floods during the rainy season and a higher risk of fires in the dry season. Climate change is making this cycle more frequent and severe.
This is why the Fire Preparedness, Adaptation & Response Plan is so important now.
