What's happened
Wildfires in Namibia's Etosha National Park, which started on September 22, have burned about 34% of the park, causing ecological damage and threatening wildlife, including the critically endangered black rhinoceros. The government deployed additional military resources amid criticism over response coordination.
What's behind the headline?
The response to Namibia's wildfires highlights systemic issues in disaster management, including delayed coordination with private and citizen groups. The extensive ecological damage—burning a third of the park—will have long-term impacts on biodiversity and tourism. The government's reliance on military resources suggests a reactive approach that may not be sustainable. Climate change is exacerbating fire risks, and Namibia's experience underscores the need for proactive, integrated disaster response strategies. The criticism from citizen firefighters reveals gaps in preparedness and resource allocation, which could hinder future responses. The ecological and economic consequences will likely persist, emphasizing the importance of addressing climate vulnerabilities and improving disaster resilience.
What the papers say
The Guardian articles from September 28 and 29, 2025, provide detailed accounts of the fire's extent, government response, and ecological impact. Al Jazeera's coverage emphasizes the role of climate change and the international context, including Namibia's climate advocacy. The contrasting perspectives highlight both the logistical challenges faced by authorities and the broader environmental implications, illustrating a complex picture of disaster response and climate vulnerability.
How we got here
The fires began in late September, likely triggered by charcoal production activities near the park, which is home to diverse wildlife and a major tourist attraction. Namibia faces increasing wildfire risks linked to climate change, with ecological and economic impacts. The government has responded with military deployment and calls for private sector assistance.
Go deeper
More on these topics
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Namibia, officially the Republic of Namibia, is a country in Southern Africa. Its western border is the Atlantic Ocean; it shares land borders with Zambia and Angola to the north, Botswana to the east and South Africa to the south and east.
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Etosha National Park is a national park in northwestern Namibia and one of the largest national parks in Africa. It was proclaimed a game reserve in March 1907 in Ordinance 88 by the Governor of German South West Africa, Friedrich von Lindequist.