Renthia Kaimbi
The Erongo Regional Council has issued an appeal for responsible fire management as active wildfires continue to threaten parts of the Daures and Karibib Constituencies.
The council expressed concern over the situation, warning of the devastating impact uncontrolled blazes can have on the region’s communities and economy.
In a press statement released on Monday, the council highlighted the significant threat wildfires pose to lives, livestock, wildlife, grazing land, infrastructure, and the natural environment.
The spate of recent incidents serves as a reminder of the destruction that can result from uncontrolled fires.
Chief regional officer Mupenzeni Ntelamo discouraged the deliberate or arbitrary setting of fires, particularly in fire-prone areas during the current dry and windy conditions.
“Residents are urged to refrain from burning vegetation, refuse or any other materials without the necessary precautions and authorization where applicable,” read the statement.
The Council has called on all community members to remain vigilant and take proactive measures. Residents are encouraged to “maintain firebreaks, report fire outbreaks immediately to the relevant authorities, and cooperate with emergency response teams and local leadership involved in firefighting efforts.”
This plea highlights the shared responsibility required to combat the escalating fire risk.
The Erongo Regional Council further acknowledged the tireless efforts of all emergency personnel involved in firefighting operations.
A special commendation was extended to the Namibian Airforce, alongside farmers, volunteers, traditional leaders, and other stakeholders who have participated in efforts to contain the wildfire and limit its devastating impact.
The cooperation between these diverse groups, the council said, has been crucial in managing the crisis in the Daures and Karibib areas.
“Fire prevention remains a shared responsibility,” the council stated. “We therefore call upon all residents, community leaders, farmers and other stakeholders to work collectively in preventing the outbreak and spread of wildfires.”
Ntelamo emphasized that collective effort is the key to safeguarding the region. “Through vigilance, responsible conduct and prompt reporting of fire incidents, communities can help safeguard lives, livelihoods, property and the environment,” he said.
