from ALFRED SHILONGO in Windhoek, Namibia
Namibia Bureau
WINDHOEK, (CAJ News) – NAMIBIA has deployed the military in response to a raging wildfire that has left an unspecified number of wildlife dead.
Acting President, Lucia Witbooi, ordered the deployment following the tragedy at the Etosha National Park, since last Monday.
On Friday, the fire, whose source is unknown, has spread into the communal areas of Omusati and Oshana Regions, particularly in the constituencies of Otamanzi, Ruacana and Uuvudhiya.
Approximately 30 percent of the grazing in the park has been destroyed by the fire.
“The fire poses a significant threat to the biodiversity, wildlife and livelihood of the communities in the affected areas,” Witbooi said.
A contingent of 40 members of Namibia Defence Force (NDF) were dispatched to the area on Saturday.
Another 500 soldiers were dispatched on Sunday.
Two helicopters and fire extinguishers by the NDF were dispatched on the same day.
Police have offered additional power through the Oshana and Kunene regions.
Witbooi urged visitors to Etosha National Park to follow management directives on the safe routes and precautions in the park.
She has appealed to citizens to remain calm and allow the necessary state apparatus to continue to attend to the matter.
– CAJ News