Namibia’s conservation model benefits over 200 000 citizens

Minister of environment, forestry and tourism Pohamba Shifeta says Namibia’s innovative conservation initiatives have transformed the lives of over 200 000 citizens by fostering sustainable livelihoods.

Speaking at the 11th Plenary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) in Windhoek, Shifeta outlined the country’s success in linking environmental stewardship with community development.

He said Namibia is home to a thriving network of 86 communal conservancies, creating sustainable livelihoods and fostering a shared responsibility for conservation.

“Through the efforts of these conservancies, over 200 000 Namibians benefit directly from conservation initiatives, which support livelihoods through employment, income generation and community development projects,” he said.

Namibia’s conservation policies, rooted in its Constitution since independence in 1990, have established a network of state-protected areas and community-managed regions covering more than 40% of the country’s land surface.

Shifeta highlighted how these efforts exceed the 30×30 Global Biodiversity Framework target.

“Today, Namibia boasts thriving wildlife populations, with globally endangered species such as elephants, rhinos, lions and cheetahs increasing significantly.

These achievements underscore our unique approach, which connects conservation to sustainable development,” he said.

The IPBES conference is set to launch two landmark reports, namely the Nexus Assessment and Transformative Change reports, which address biodiversity, climate change and food security challenges.

“These reports provide vital insights into how we can address the interconnected crises of biodiversity loss, climate change, food insecurity, and public health. Namibia’s hosting of IPBES11 underscores our commitment to advancing solutions that integrate science, policy and community-based action,” Shifeta said.

The minister also emphasised regional conservation efforts through the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA), a collaboration between five Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states.

“The KAZA initiative strengthens biodiversity conservation and promotes regional unity and sustainable tourism development.

Namibia’s commitment to transboundary efforts underscores our leadership in conservation, policy development and community empowerment,” Shifeta said.

Despite its successes, the minister said Namibia faces challenges such as human-wildlife conflict and poaching.

“Our rural communities, especially those living alongside wildlife, are on the frontlines of these challenges.

Human-wildlife conflict, driven by climate change and competition for resources, poses significant risks to vulnerable populations. Addressing these conflicts requires collaborative strategies and substantial financial resources,” Shifeta noted.

Shifeta also championed regulated trophy hunting as part of Namibia’s conservation model, referring to it as “conservation hunting.”

“When properly managed and regulated, trophy hunting provides vital economic incentives that empower local communities and private landowners to become active stewards of their natural resources.

The revenue generated directly funds vital infrastructure such as schools, healthcare facilities and water systems, while also supporting anti-poaching efforts and wildlife conservation,” he explained.

He said Namibia’s role within SADC and its leadership in hosting IPBES11 highlight its commitment to advancing regional and global biodiversity objectives. – The Brief