Wildfire Contained in Namibia's Etosha National Park After Criticism of Initial Response

Wildfire in Namibia Contained, Says PM, Amid Criticism of Response The Namibian government has announced that the devastating wildfire in Etosha national park is under control, with all fires contained and mop-up operations ongoing. Prime Minister Tjitunga Elijah Ngurare confirmed this on his Facebook page early Monday morning. Timeline of Events September 22: Wildfire breaks out in Etosha national park September 24: Government deploys 49 soldiers to fight the fire September 25: Additional 500 troops are sent to assist with firefighting efforts October 3: Prime Minister confirms all fires contained Immediate Impact and Response The wildfire has burned over a third of Etosha national park, affecting more than 775,000 hectares inside the park and an additional 171,000 hectares outside. The government has acknowledged that troops were deployed too late to prevent widespread damage. Volunteers have expressed frustration with the response mechanism and limited resources. Background Context Etosha national park is one of Africa's largest protected areas, home to 114 mammal species, including the critically endangered black rhino. Charcoal production near the park has been suspected as a contributing factor to the fire. What Happens Next As mop-up operations continue, the government will conduct an investigation into the cause and response to the wildfire. The incident highlights concerns about resource management and emergency preparedness in Namibia's protected areas. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Theguardian reporting.*