Namibia has sent hundreds of soldiers to battle a wildfire that has scorched more than a third of Etosha national park, one of Africa’s largest game reserves and home to 114 mammal species including the critically endangered black rhino.
The blaze, which began on 22 September, has already consumed about 34% of the park and caused “extensive ecological damage”, according to the environment ministry. At least nine antelope have been killed so far.
After an emergency cabinet meeting, the government ordered 500 additional soldiers to join ongoing firefighting efforts by police, local residents and park staff. “They are deployed from various regions and will be deployed to all affected areas,” said defence minister Frans Kapofi.
Authorities believe the fire originated from charcoal production on bordering commercial farms.
Etosha covers 22,270 sq km (8,600 sq miles), with its ancient salt pan at the centre attracting large flocks of flamingos in the rainy season. The park is one of Namibia’s most important wildlife refuges and a major tourist draw.
