Nearly 30 goats killed as farmers battle 'devastating' blaze

A veld fire that has been burning for five days has killed at least 27 goats in the Ongandjera area of Okahao constituency, with farmers saying a severe shortage of manpower and equipment is letting the flames reignite day after day.

"It's heartbreaking. We deserve compensation because this is a disaster," said one farmer, who asked not to be named, after losing 17 goats and four sheep to the blaze so far.

"Our grazing areas are completely depleted. We need effective measures to prevent veld fires. Where will our livestock graze if we continue to lose them to these fires?” the man added.

Farmers across Iitapa, Olusindo and Onambandje villages have lost livestock to the blaze, which started on Saturday.

Among them is Angala Meshack, who told Namibian Sun they have been battling it alongside officials, but strong winds continuously reignite the flames.

"The fire has spread over approximately 70 kilometres, and only 11 individuals are currently on the ground attempting to control it," he said.

"We need more hands on deck. Additional assistance could expedite the containment efforts."

Meshack said immediate intervention is urgent and suggested that once the blaze is under control, boreholes should be installed at cattle posts and firebreaks constructed to be better prepared next time.

"At the moment, we only have palm tree leaves to combat the flames, as the nearest borehole is about 40 kilometres away," he said. "The truck on-site cannot access the area due to the lack of firebreaks. These firebreaks would significantly help in curbing the fire's spread," he added.

Livestock deaths

The farmer said no cattle were injured during the fire, only goats.

"I own 200 goats, and so far, I have lost 10. I’m still searching to ensure the remaining ones are safe," Meshack said.

He explained the goats are especially at risk of veld fires.

"Unlike cattle, goats do not flee from fire. They tend to remain in place until the flames reach them, causing severe harm. Their eyes burst from the heat, and they suffer burns because they cannot see to escape," he said.

While Meshack's 57 cattle survived the fire, the blaze has devastated a large grazing area. Despite this loss, he plans to sell the meat of the burnt goats, as it remains edible in his view.

The farmer said he has started relocating his remaining livestock to nearby cattle posts, hoping to wait until next year for the area to recover. 

Officials at the agriculture ministry's office in Omusati confirmed the fire.

"Yes, the fire started on Saturday and is still ongoing. We are on-site working to manage it. We camp out at the location to control it during the day, but it reignites each morning," an official said.

The ministry assured that efforts to contain the fire are ongoing.