Environment ministry addresses road infrastructure challenges in Etosha National Park

In response to growing concerns from tourists and tour operators, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism has announced immediate and long-term measures to address the deteriorating road conditions within Etosha National Park. Visitors and stakeholders have reported significant issues, particularly on the stretch from Okaukuejo to Namutoni, where heavy traffic has led to severe gravel erosion, corrugations, potholes, and drainage issues.

As a rapid intervention, the Ministry has deployed three graders to grade the roads connecting Halali to Namutoni, Okaukuejo to Halali, and Namutoni to King Nehale Gate. This grading work is expected to enhance road quality along these routes within the next two weeks. Additionally, the Ministry has confirmed that a long-term project to upgrade these gravel roads to low-seal volume tar will soon commence. The targeted sections for this upgrade include the roads from Okaukuejo through Halali and Namutoni to King Nehale Gate.

Since 2018, the Ministry has successfully upgraded over 200 kilometers of Etosha’s western roads from Okaukuejo to Galton Gate, completing this project in March 2024. This ongoing focus on road improvements underscores the Ministry’s commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable travel experience for all visitors to Namibia’s iconic national park.

Tourists currently visiting Etosha are encouraged to consider alternative scenic routes from Okaukuejo to Halali via Gemsbokvlakte, Olifantsbad, and Aus for smoother travel. The Ministry regrets any inconvenience caused and assures both tourists and the public that the situation is being treated as a priority.