Etosha wildfires spread to Omusati region

[PODCAST]

Namibia is facing one of its worst veld fire disasters in recent memory. The flames that started over a week ago have torn through Etosha National Park and spread across the Oshana and Omusati regions, scorching about 1.1 million hectares of land — including 34% of Etosha’s area. Wildlife, grazing land, and livelihoods have been devastated, while villagers, police, and soldiers continue battling the inferno with limited resources. Over 500 soldiers and helicopters have now been deployed, yet the fires remain uncontained. Joining us is Omusati police regional commander, Commissioner Ismael Basson, who is leading efforts on the frontline.