Oshakati: Governor of the Oshikoto Region, Sacky Kathindi, has joined efforts with Omusati Region Governor, Immanuel Shikongo, to address the severe fire that has swept across the Omusati Region. The fire has devastated thousands of hectares of grazing land in the Uutsathima and OmutambowOmawe villages in Okahao, severely affecting local communities who depend on these resources for livestock sustenance.
According to Namibia Press Agency, during a high-level delegation visit to Omusati, Governor Shikongo conveyed that the fire has extensively impacted all grazing areas, leading to the loss of small livestock for many farmers. Shikongo highlighted that the fire has not only destroyed vegetation but also damaged fences, resulting in elephants escaping into the Oshana Region. The economic repercussions for farmers are expected to be significant due to the destruction of grazing lands.
Governor Shikongo noted challenges in combating the fire, including a shortage of essential equipment like wind blowers and adequate transportation for teams working to manage the situation. Meanwhile, Oshikoto Governor Kathindi, after conducting an aerial survey of the fire's impact in Etosha National Park, confirmed the extensive damage to large areas in Omusati. Kathindi expressed optimism that the combined efforts of the deployed teams would eventually contain the blaze.
Governor Kathindi urged the government to launch an awareness campaign to educate the public on fire prevention and management to avert future incidents. Additionally, Kathindi provided support to the firefighting teams by donating food parcels, recognizing their relentless efforts.
Jonas Mukwiini, Chief Forester for Kavango East and Kavango West at the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, explained that the fire's rapid spread is fueled by strong winds, dry grass, and intense heat. He emphasized that cutlines alone are insufficient to halt the spread of wildfires, advocating for the implementation of more effective preventative measures to prevent similar destructive incidents in the future.