Archive · 1 Oct 2025
Wildfires Destroy a Third of Namibia's Etosha National Park
Imagine a big park in Africa called Etosha, home to lions, elephants, and other cool animals.
A fire started there about a week ago, and it's spreading fast!
The fire has burned a big part of the park.
The fire is believed to have been caused by some charcoal production that was happening nearby.
Many animals have been killed or lost their homes.
Over 500 soldiers have been sent to try and stop the fire from spreading even more.
The fire also is affecting areas outside the park, where communities live.
The government is working hard to put out the fire and protect the animals and people.
Wildfires have consumed about one-third of Etosha National Park in Namibia.
The fires are thought to have originated from charcoal-production activities.
Strong winds and dry vegetation are aiding the rapid spread of the blazes.
An unknown number of wildlife have perished, but no human casualties have been reported.
Over 500 soldiers have been deployed to combat the fire.
- Who
- Namibian government and military, local communities
- What
- Wildfires destroying a significant portion of Etosha National Park and surrounding areas.
- When
- Started approximately a week ago
- Where
- Etosha National Park and surrounding communal areas in Namibia
- Why
- Believed to be from charcoal production
- Affected Area
- Etosha National Park, Namibia
- Size of Park
- 20,000 square kilometers (7,722 square miles)
- Percentage Burned
- Approximately 34%
- Cause
- Suspected charcoal-production activity
- Wildlife Impact
- Antelope killed, pangolin rescued
- Response
- Over 500 soldiers deployed