Opuwo:A massive wildfire has destroyed grazing areas in Otjozongombe, located in the Opuwo Rural Constituency of the Kunene Region. The rocky terrain and limited access have hindered efforts to contain the fire.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the fire, believed to have been caused by lightning, began on Sunday and has affected several areas, including Okanandjira, Otjozongombe Kombanda, Otjihorongo, and Okombako. These regions lie within the borders of the Orupupa, Okangundumba, and Omatendeka conservancies.

Frans Amunyela, a senior forestry technician in the Ministry of Forestry and Tourism's Directorate of Forestry, highlighted the difficulties faced by firefighters, noting the challenging mountainous terrain and lack of proper roads as significant obstacles. The firefighting team is also hindered by a shortage of equipment, operating with only four fire blowers. Amunyela emphasized the need for more firefighting resources to improve response times and effectiveness.

Mbukamuna Tjimbonde, a resident of Otjozongombe, noted that community members initially attempted to combat the blaze but were unable to manage it before the ministry's intervention. The lack of roads and the exhaustion of community members, compounded by a shortage of food, have further complicated their efforts.

Amunyela called for stronger cooperation between government ministries, conservancies, and communities to better manage wildfire outbreaks. He stressed the importance of reporting individuals who deliberately start fires, as these uncontrolled blazes devastate grazing lands and vital natural resources.