Marakele mountain fire contained as park keeps watch

Flames spread across the mountain slopes in Marakele National Park, where the fire remains under control and is being closely monitored.

Platinum Bushvelder newspaper | Thabazimbi – A fire burning in the mountainous area of Marakele National Park since Friday 9 October 2026 remains under control, according to the park’s conservation manager, Tshifhiwa Mauda. The blaze, which has been moving down the mountain slopes, prompted enquiries from concerned community members. Mauda reassured the public that the fire remains within the park and is being monitored.

He explained that natural fires form part of the Waterberg’s ecological cycle. These fires often begin high in the mountains following lightning strikes and gradually spread downhill. The cause of this particular fire was not specified.

“Every second or third year, Marakele experiences fires that start at the top of the mountain and burn downwards,” said Mauda. To help protect neighbouring areas and park infrastructure, firebreaks are maintained along the boundary fence and around facilities. The park also carries out controlled block burns to reduce the build-up of old vegetation and other combustible plant material.

While fires can threaten infrastructure and surrounding areas, they also play an important ecological role. By clearing old vegetation, they make way for fresh growth that provides food for wildlife. Certain plant species also depend on periodic fires for regeneration.

Mauda reiterated that the situation remains under control, with ongoing monitoring forming part of the park’s fire management efforts.