+264 (0)61 252922

P.O. Box 40497, Windhoek, Namibia

NATURE CONSERVATION IN NAMIBIA

A role model for the rest of the world

Namibia is one of the few countries in the world, that allows and stipulates by law the sustainable use of all renewable natural resources for the benefit of the population. With this unusual step government granted ownership and usage rights to those who cultivate agricultural land. The result is an extensive increase in the numbers of different wildlife species in these regions.

The utilization of wildlife has become an important operational part in communal areas, registered as conservancies, as well as on privately owned farm areas. The existence of many Namibians solely depends on this revenue. One of the most important aspects of wildlife maintenance is the adherence of a few basic ground rules. It is not about the survival of independent species, but about the continuation of all species in viable areas. The preservation of natural biotopes, which is worldwide already a delicate issue, is of importance in extensive wildlife areas.

Key factor is to find a balance between domestic farming and wildlife. This balance is maintained by ensuring animal populations meet the current forage/feeding conditions in conjunction with growth figures. This inevitably leads to human/animal conflicts. The conflict with problem animals is receiving continued attention. This has led to many research projects in various areas and to educate the local population at the same time.

It is becoming increasingly evident, especially in Africa, that where local communities utilize and benefit from wildlife populations, the preservation of biodiversity and the fight against poaching are best ensured.
Namibia is no exception. Almost 80% of game or wild animals co-exist on agricultural farmed land. Vast tracts of land in Namibia, such as also the sensitive desert, are proclaimed nature reserves.

It is the governments duty to manage these areas, of which numerous parks, including the famous Etosha National Park, have been developed for tourism. The internationally operated poaching of Rhino and Elephant are also an ever-present major concern in Namibia. However, more and more measures are being taken to keep the local Rhino- and Elephant populations protected as best possible and at all times.

We invite you to have a closer look at the splendour and diversity of Namibia’s Fauna and Flora!