Etosha fire contained, but flames persist in Omusati

Environment and tourism minister Indileni Daniel has confirmed that while no human casualties have been reported, wildfires continue to burn in three areas of the Omusati Region, despite firefighting efforts in and around Etosha National Park.Responding to MPs in parliament yesterday, Daniel said: “In the Omusati Region, there are still three active fire areas: Ombonde, Amalika, and Okelongo. These areas have been reinforced, and a helicopter was deployed today. Although I was not on that flight, the latest report confirms fire activity remains in these areas.”She emphasised that containment measures are in place, with 45 members of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), community volunteers, and park staff deployed to the hotspots. “We are confident the fire will be fully contained later today,” Daniel said, adding that park teams are conducting mopping-up operations in areas already brought under control.Daniel also dismissed claims that volunteers were denied access to assist, stating that permission was granted to those who contacted her office directly.The minister highlighted that Etosha National Park is divided into blocks with firebreaks, supported by a management plan. However, she acknowledged that fires can still jump these barriers.President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, in a message delivered to parliament by Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare, assured the nation: “No human casualties have been recorded to date. An on-the-ground assessment will soon determine the extent of wildlife losses and the cause of the fire.”She added that another fire, which started on 24 September 2025, has spread into communal areas of Omusati and Oshana. “The government is deeply concerned about the impact on livelihoods, the environment, and tourism. Measures will be put in place to improve response times and effectiveness,” the President said.Nandi-Ndaitwah stressed the need for an integrated response. “Our immediate priorities are to minimise damage to Etosha, safeguard biodiversity and tourism, and protect farmers and rural communities. Although the fire has damaged grazing land, no human casualties have been reported.”A total of 311 NDF members have been dispatched to Etosha to join 150 Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism officials. Outside the park, 136 NDF personnel are already deployed in Omusati and Oshana, with 90 more set to join. They are working alongside 45 ministry officials.She said progress has been made in containing the fires. “Some areas have been severely damaged, but the fires are now largely under control and are being closely monitored. In Ombonde, 45 NDF members, ministry officials, and community volunteers are on site.”Inside Etosha, one active fire remains, with a dedicated team deployed to contain it. Three operational bases have been established by the NDF to coordinate firefighting, supported by three trucks, two tankers, and an administrative vehicle. A total of 50,000 litres of water has been secured from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Land Reform and the Department of Forestry.Government has mobilised resources from multiple ministries and agencies, including the Office of the Prime Minister, the Game Products Trust Fund, and regional councils. Helicopters have been deployed, firebreaks reinforced, and ground teams supplied with food, equipment, and medical support, including a mobile clinic.The President acknowledged challenges such as strong winds, dry vegetation, and occasional vehicle breakdowns. “The National Disaster Risk Management Committee meets daily to coordinate efforts, provide support, and update the nation,” she said.She added that a situation room has been established to provide real-time information. “Disasters strike unexpectedly, their consequences often beyond comprehension. Yet in times like this, the resilience of a nation is revealed, uniting citizens beyond political and social differences,” Nandi-Ndaitwah concluded.nikanor@nmh-hub.com.na

Etosha fire contained, but flames persist in Omusati

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-01

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Etosha fire contained, but flames persist in Omusati

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-01

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