LAGOS-(MaraviPost)-In Nigeria and across the world, fire is a double-edged sword – a tool for farming and a threat to communities and ecosystems.
Bush burning has been a part of farming practices for generations, but with unpredictable weather and rising temperatures due to climate change, a controlled fire can easily turn into a full-blown wildfire.
Across Africa, fires account for about 70% of global burned land, making it the most fire-affected region globally.
The continent’s vast savannas and forests are increasingly vulnerable to wildfires, which can have devastating consequences for local communities, wildlife, and the environment.
Nigerian ecologist, Iroro Tanshi, has made it her mission to combat this threat through her ‘Zero Fire’ initiative.
Partnering with communities across southern Nigeria, Tanshi’s project aims to protect forests, wildlife, and communities from wildfires.
Through her work, Tanshi has earned recognition as a leading voice in the fight against wildfires in Africa.
Her dedication and innovative approach have not gone unnoticed, with Tanshi being awarded the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize Award of 2026.
The Goldman Environmental Prize is one of the world’s most respected environmental awards, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to protecting the natural world.
Tanshi’s award is a testament to her tireless efforts to promote sustainable land use practices and reduce the impact of wildfires on communities and ecosystems.
Tanshi’s work is not only important for Nigeria but also for the global community.
As climate change continues to exacerbate the risk of wildfires, her ‘Zero Fire’ initiative serves as a model for other countries and communities to follow.
The ‘Zero Fire’ initiative is a community-led approach that engages local people in fire prevention and management.
By working together with communities, Tanshi’s project has been able to reduce the incidence of wildfires and promote more sustainable land use practices.
Tanshi’s achievement is a beacon of hope for environmental activists and communities across Africa.
Her work demonstrates that with determination and innovative approaches, it is possible to make a real difference in the fight against wildfires and climate change.
As Africa continues to grapple with the impacts of climate change, the work of individuals like Iroro Tanshi will be crucial in promoting sustainable development and protecting the continent’s natural resources.
Iroro Tanshi’s ‘Zero Fire’ initiative is a community-led wildfire prevention program that has been making waves in Nigeria and beyond.
The initiative aims to protect forests, wildlife, and communities from wildfires, which are a major threat to African ecosystems.
Tanshi, a Nigerian ecologist, launched the ‘Zero Fire’ campaign to address the devastating impact of wildfires on bat habitats and other wildlife in the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary.
Through this initiative, Tanshi and her team have successfully prevented serious wildfires in the sanctuary since 2022, engaging local communities in fire prevention and highlighting the importance of bats in ecosystems.
Wildfires have a profound impact on African ecosystems, accounting for about 70% of global burned land.
They threaten biodiversity, destroy habitats, and disrupt local livelihoods.
In Nigeria, wildfires are often caused by uncontrolled farm fires, which can quickly spread and devastate entire forests.
Tanshi’s work has not only protected critical habitats but also educated communities about the ecological importance of bats and other species.
Her efforts have earned her prestigious awards, including the Goldman Environmental Prize and the Future for Nature Award.
