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Namibia Says Etosha Wildfire Contained After Devastating a Third of Park

Containment followed an emergency military deployment.

Overview

  • The blaze, which began on September 22, burned about 34% of Etosha National Park, or roughly 775,163 hectares, according to the environment ministry.
  • Environment Minister Indileni Daniel said an overflight showed no active flames, though intermittent hotspots persist and teams remain in place to monitor them.
  • Following an emergency cabinet meeting, the government sent 500 additional soldiers and two helicopters to support ground efforts across affected areas.
  • The environment ministry has attributed the likely ignition to charcoal-production activities on farms bordering the park, with inquiries continuing.
  • Authorities report an unknown number of animal deaths, including at least nine antelopes, no human fatalities, partial tourist road closures, and about 30% of pasture burned.