Wildfires Destroy 34 Percent of Namibia’s Etosha National Park

(MENAFN) Wildfires sweeping through Etosha National Park have scorched more than a third of the park, causing severe ecological harm and resulting in confirmed wildlife fatalities, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism reported Sunday.

In a statement, the ministry confirmed that roughly 775,163 hectares—approximately 34 percent of the park—have been burned since the fires erupted on September 22 in the southwestern region. Additionally, about 171,098 hectares of grazing land and communal areas outside the park in the Omusati and Oshana regions have also been affected.

Authorities have reported the discovery of at least nine antelope carcasses in the fire-impacted zones, with one pangolin successfully rescued. However, the ministry cautioned that the true extent of wildlife losses could be even greater as further assessments are underway.

"The wildfire crisis in Etosha National Park and surrounding areas poses a significant threat to Namibia's biodiversity, local livelihoods, and critical infrastructure," the ministry said in its statement.

To combat the growing crisis, firefighting operations have been ramped up, with 40 additional soldiers, a water tanker, and two helicopters deployed to assist. More military personnel are expected to join the efforts in the coming days.

Etosha National Park, renowned for its rich wildlife and stunning salt pan landscapes, is a key tourism destination in Namibia, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

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