Tanzanian authorities have confirmed that over 400 volunteers have been trying to put out a fire on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest peak. “The flames can be seen from miles away” – affirmed one of the locals.
Tanzania National Parks statement said the volunteers have managed to contain the fire’s spread. Spokesman Pascal Shelutete said the area still burning is known as Kifunika Hill.
“A big percentage of the fire has been contained by the multi-agency team which has been working since early morning,” Shelutete said.
The cause of the fire is yet to be established. Allan Kijazi, head of Tanzania National Parks, said the fire has consumed two thousand hectares of vegetation.
He said the fire may have been caused by a worker warming food for tourists.
“Tourism activities are still going on,” Mr. Kijazi added and assured tourists of their safety.
Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain on the African continent and is popular with hikers and climbers..
