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Fire Ravages Namibian National Park
Namibia has deployed over 500 soldiers to help battle a sweeping wildfire in Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s largest and most biodiverse conservation areas. The fire, which broke out on 22 September, has already burned through roughly 34% of the park – an area equal to around 775,000 hectares – prompting the closure of some tourist routes and emergency support from helicopters, police, and civilian volunteers.
Etosha, located in northern Namibia, is a key safari destination and home to 114 mammal species, including the critically endangered black rhinoceros. Officials report that at least nine antelope have been killed, with the full wildlife toll yet unknown. While human casualties have been avoided, the fire poses a serious threat to local livelihoods and biodiversity. The cause is believed to be linked to charcoal production near the park’s borders, and conditions remain volatile due to strong winds and dry vegetation.
Source: Al Jazeera English