Council Targets End-of-Week Resolution for Richmond Landfill Fire

12 May 2025

By Charity Chikara

The Bulawayo City Council’s Fire and Ambulance Services has assured residents that efforts are underway to control the fire that broke out at the Richmond Landfill Site, with teams working to suppress flames and reduce smoke using earth and gravel.

Chief Fire Officer Mr. Mhlangano Moyo attributed the recurring fires to both spontaneous combustion and human activity.

“The fires are often attributed to salvagers who intentionally set fires to make it easier to collect recycled materials, especially metals for sale,” he said.

“We also have issues of spontaneous combustion due to the nature of disposed items that release metal and gases.”

Smoke from the fire continues to affect residents in Cowdray Park, Emakhandeni, Richmond, and surrounding areas. Moyo urged the community to take health precautions.

“We urge the community of Cowdray Park and Richmond to put on face masks and close their windows to avoid health-related issues.”

He explained that traditional firefighting methods are not applicable to landfill fires, adding that the department is working closely with the City Health Department.

“We don’t apply water on such types of fires. We are putting gravel to suffocate the oxygen,” said Moyo.

“As I speak, the fire is not at an advanced stage. By the end of this week, it will be in order. We apologise for the inconvenience caused.”

Council also expressed concern over the ongoing illegal burning of waste and confirmed that engagements are ongoing with waste salvagers to prevent future incidents. The City of Bulawayo is working in collaboration with the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) and the Zimbabwe Republic Police to develop sustainable solutions.