Windhoek:Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has directed the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) to enhance its strategies for preventing and mitigating the impact of wildfires. He emphasized the critical need for advanced preparedness and effective response measures to protect Namibia's wildlife and natural environment during a meeting with Minister Indileni Daniel and her management team.

According to NAMPA, the discussion highlighted the aftermath of a wildfire that damaged parts of the Etosha National Park last year. Prime Minister Ngurare urged the ministry to learn from this incident and intensify proactive efforts to minimize future damage.

Minister Daniel responded by outlining several measures being implemented to improve the country's wildfire preparedness. Key strategies include the establishment of cut-lines as strategic firebreaks and the strategic positioning of water tanker trucks to ensure rapid response during fire outbreaks. The implementation of the National Strategy for Wildlife and Environmental Protection was also mentioned as part of the ministry's comprehensive framework to safeguard Namibia's natural heritage.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Ngurare called on MEFT to expand and intensify public awareness campaigns. He noted that some local traditions associate masculinity with the killing of wild animals, underscoring the need to educate communities on conservation and their role in preventing wildfires.

Ngurare concluded by commending the ministry for its socio-economic contributions, particularly the creation of 250 employment opportunities for young people through the ongoing Etosha National Park fencing project, with an additional 30 youth appointments expected soon.