Wildfire Engulfs Mount Hanang in Tanzania, Authorities Dismiss Volcanic Link

Wildfire Engulfs Mount Hanang’ in Tanzania, Sparking Concern and Memories of Past Disasters

A massive wildfire has swept through the slopes of Mount Hanang’, located in the Manyara Region of Tanzania, igniting fears among local residents. Initially, some people suspected that the fire might be a sign of volcanic activity at the mountain’s summit. However, authorities have since clarified that the blaze is a bushfire caused by human activities.

Mount Hanang’ is one of Tanzania’s most prominent natural landmarks. It stands as the fifth-highest peak in the country, following Kilimanjaro, Meru, Loolmalasin, and Oldonyo L’engai. The mountain reaches an elevation of 3,420 meters above sea level and is the centerpiece of the 5,871-hectare Mount Hanang Forest Reserve, which borders the town of Katesh.

The Manyara Regional Commissioner, Queen Sendiga, stated that the fire was likely the result of human actions, including illegal entry into the forest for logging and charcoal production. She emphasized that efforts to control the blaze are ongoing, although strong winds have made it difficult to contain.

“Efforts to contain the fire are in progress, but strong winds at times spread the flames,” she said. Additionally, she highlighted that beekeeping within the reserve also poses a risk of fires.

Sendiga dismissed any claims of volcanic activity, confirming that the fire is a bushfire that has devastated large areas of vegetation. She noted that experts have been sent to conduct a detailed assessment of the damage.

Local resident Petro Joseph Akko reported that the fire had burned for over three days and had not been extinguished by recent rainfall in parts of the district. This has raised concerns about the potential for further destruction and the impact on the surrounding ecosystem.

The incident has brought back painful memories of the December 3, 2023 disaster, when a landslide triggered by unstable terrain on Mount Hanang’ destroyed homes and claimed the lives of more than 100 villagers. The current wildfire has reignited fears of similar tragedies occurring in the future.

Abubakar Mpapa, the Conservation Officer for the Mount Hanang’ Reserve at the Tanzania Forestry Service, acknowledged the significant destruction caused by the fire. He stated that both plant and animal life have been affected, and that every available measure is being used to suppress the flames.

Emmanuel Kibona, the Acting Regional Commander of the Manyara Fire and Rescue Brigade, revealed that boy scouts have been mobilized to assist in containing the blaze. This collaborative effort highlights the urgency of the situation and the need for community involvement.

Preliminary assessments by the fire department indicate that over 170 hectares have already been burned. Authorities described the response efforts as particularly challenging, as the fire broke out in the middle of the night on December 3, 2025. The timing of the outbreak made it difficult for emergency services to respond quickly and effectively.

As the situation continues to unfold, the focus remains on controlling the fire and preventing further damage to the environment and local communities. The resilience of the people in Manyara Region will be tested as they work together to protect their land and livelihoods from the growing threat of wildfires.