Windhoek
Over 100 Namibians said to be residing at Fort McMurray, a Canadian city ravaged by out-of-control wildfires, say they are all safe and sound.
More than 100 000 residents of the city and surrounding areas fled after an evacuation order was issued.
According to international media reports, the Fort McMurray fire that started about a week ago and continues to ravage communities in the area. Officials estimate the fire has now extended over an area of 200 000 hectares.
Rumburo Tjaverua, a resident of Fort McMurray who originally hails from Okondjatu in the Otjozondjupa Region, told New Era yesterday that no Namibians have reported as leaving Fort McMurray.
“As far as I’m concern we’re all safe and sound,” she said, adding that the only thing some Namibians lost is their national documents, such as passports and ID’s and also clothing and cars.
“When the fire started I was at work so I was told to evacuate the city immediately,” she said.
Another Namibian resident of Fort McMurray, Rejoice Kamuhanga, who hails from Aminuis in the Omaheke Region, said she has not heard of any Namibian injured in the fires.
“We’re all fine. Currently most of us are living in hotels in nearby cities. Most of my friends are also fine,” she said.
Kelly Henguva, also a Canadian resident, who comes from Aminuis in the Omaheke Region, says apart from losing important national documents and personal belongings, they are all fine.
She said they are currently living in hotels paid for by Red Cross and sympathisers.
United States Ambassador Martin Andjamba was unavailable for comment yesterday as he was said to be in locked in meetings for most of the day.