Accra:Hardap A wildfire that ignited in the Daweb Constituency of the Hardap Region on Monday has rapidly spread to the Gibeon Constituency, devastating approximately 15,000 hectares of land and posing a significant threat to grazing resources in communal areas.

According to NAMPA, agricultural technician Devin Plaatjes highlighted that firefighting operations are being severely challenged by strong winds, a shortage of manpower, and the long distances to water sources. The fire, which originated in the Maltahöhe area, continues to advance into Gibeon, with ongoing efforts to contain it.

Plaatjes expressed concerns over the difficulties in combating the blaze, emphasizing the urgent need for additional manpower and assistance to bolster firefighting capabilities. While no formal damage assessment has been conducted due to the ongoing nature of the fire, there have been no reported livestock deaths. However, the potential impact on wildlife and the loss of grazing land remain pressing issues for communal farmers.

Efforts to control the fire involve community members, farmers, firefighting teams, and stakeholders from the Hardap Regional Council, Gibeon Village Council, and Maltahöhe Village Council. The cause of the wildfire is still under investigation.

Johanna Amakali, Deputy Director of Rural Services, informed NAMPA that Namibian Defence Force troops have been deployed to assist in firefighting efforts in the affected areas. A thorough assessment to determine the extent of the damage to grazing land and other resources is anticipated once the fire is under control.