Namibia's PM Claims Wildfire Contained Amid Criticism of Response Efforts

Wildfire in Namibia Contained, Says PM, Amid Criticism of Response Namibias government has confirmed that the devastating wildfire in Etosha national park has been brought under control, with Prime Minister Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare announcing on Facebook that all fires have been contained. The blaze, which broke out on September 22, had ravaged over a third of the park's area, affecting both inside and outside its boundaries. Timeline of Events September 22: Wildfire breaks out in Etosha national park September 24: Government deploys 49 soldiers to fight fires September 25: Additional 500 troops are sent to assist October 3: Prime Minister announces that all fires have been contained Immediate Impact and Response The wildfire has had a significant impact on the environment, with over 775,000 hectares of land burned inside the park and another 171,000 outside its boundaries. The government's response has come under criticism for being too slow, with volunteers claiming that troops were sent in late to assist. Background Context Etosha national park is one of Africa's largest protected areas, home to over 114 mammal species, including the critically endangered black rhino. Charcoal production next to the park is suspected to be the cause of the wildfire. What Happens Next As the situation returns to normal, the government has announced plans to conduct a thorough investigation into the causes and response to the wildfire. The incident highlights the importance of effective disaster management and emergency preparedness in protecting sensitive ecosystems like Etosha national park. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Theguardian reporting.*