Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has pledged to allocate all necessary resources to protect Etosha National Park, a vital tourist destination, after devastating wildfires ravaged parts of the park. The president emphasized the importance of preserving Etosha, describing it as the “lifeblood” of Namibia’s tourism industry.
The fires, which began on September 22, 2025, inside the park, spread to the surrounding Omusati and Oshana regions, prompting a swift response from the government. Environment Minister Indileni Daniel reported that nearly 854,000 hectares, or 38% of the park, were affected by the fires. Despite the significant damage, the park remains open to tourists, with advisories issued to exercise caution.
The government has deployed 311 members of the Namibian Defence Force and 150 officials from the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism to combat the fires. Additional teams were sent to surrounding regions, supported by trucks, helicopters, and a mobile clinic. The president confirmed that all major fire fronts have been extinguished, although monitoring continues to prevent further outbreaks.
The cause of the fire is believed to be charcoal production activities on a farm bordering the park. The government has promised to strengthen fire management systems, including faster response times and improved coordination. The environment minister noted that while the fire was a significant setback, the park’s ecosystem may benefit from the new grass growth, potentially attracting wildlife and sustaining tourism.
Farmers in the Omusati region have been severely affected, with reports of livestock deaths and destroyed cattle posts and grazing land. The government has recorded the affected farmers and is awaiting a response from the Ministry of Environment on the way forward. The incident highlights the need for a balance between environmental preservation and economic progress, with calls for stronger sanctions and tighter controls on charcoal production.
The Namibian government’s swift response to the crisis demonstrates its commitment to protecting the country’s natural resources and tourism industry. As the situation continues to unfold, the government’s efforts to prevent further fires and support affected communities will be crucial in mitigating the impact of the disaster.
