Windhoek: After nearly 10 days of wildfires in the Etosha National Park, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) reported that the fire resulted in the loss of 10 animals.

According to Namibia Press Agency, this was revealed by Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Indileni Daniel, in a statement issued on Thursday. She disclosed that the fire, which affected 38 percent of the park land, has been fully extinguished as of Tuesday.

The minister reported that one elephant, six springboks, and three duikers have been confirmed dead to date. She added that the ministry is closely monitoring water points and key animal corridors for signs of distress. Visitors are urged to report sightings of injured animals to park management for immediate response.

Daniel further noted that outside the Etosha National Park, a new active fire was discovered during the night of Wednesday in the Otoongo area, located between the Okahao and Ruacana constituencies. This fire remains active.

‘A combined team from MEFT, the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), and local communities continue to work tirelessly to contain and extinguish the blaze,’ she stated.

According to the minister, an assessment is currently underway to determine the full extent of the damage, including casualties from the wildfire. She also reassured that the park remains open despite rumours of a temporary closure.

‘Etosha National Park has never been closed. It remains fully open to visitors and tourists. While there has been speculation suggesting otherwise, we have only issued advisories urging visitors to remain vigilant and take necessary safety precautions during their stay. These measures are in place to ensure the wellbeing of both guests and wildlife in light of recent fire activity,’ she said.

According to Daniel, the wildfire began on Monday, 22 September 2025, and is believed to have originated from charcoal production activities on a commercial farm bordering the south-western section of Etosha National Park. ‘However, strong winds and an abundance of dry vegetation have made containment efforts extremely challenging. The fire spread rapidly within the park and to areas north of Etosha, affecting parts of the Omusati and Oshana regions,’ she remarked.