The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has recorded 1,2 million hectares of land burnt by wildfires, totalling 1,300 fire outbreaks countrywide in 2025.
 
Government officials, conservationists, and emergency responders met this week at Oshakati for a 3-day workshop aimed at strengthening Namibia's approach to managing wildfires.
 
Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge says wildfires continue to threaten lives, grazing land, wildlife, and infrastructure, with climate change and human activity increasing the risk.
 
The Omusati, Oshikoto and Oshana Regions recorded the highest number of outbreaks.
 
"The grass is already dry, and I have heard that most firebreaks are not ready. Illegal fencing is also making it very difficult for colleagues who are fighting these fires to access those areas. For traditional leaders, this makes their work more difficult. Please, traditional leaders, it is your responsibility to address this issue so that we can make the work easier for our colleagues on the ground.”
 
Deputy Director of Forest Management for the Northern Regions, Amon Andreas, stated that a robust response is imperative to minimise the negative effects of outbreaks.
 
Andreas added that the ministry has begun fuel load assessments and vegetation outlook monitoring to better prepare for the future wildfire seasons.
 
"These fires are not occurring on their own; they are started by someone. Our people are handling fire recklessly, especially under conditions that are favourable for fires. These conditions include warm temperatures, high fuel loads, and strong winds. Under such circumstances, no one should be starting fires, as doing so could lead to a disaster."