The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has pledged N$47.9 million towards the refurbishment of the Etosha National Park and Hardap National Park.
The refurbishment will include upgrades to the gates, ablution facilities, and picnic areas.
MEFT spokesperson Romeo Muyunda stated that in Etosha, a total of eight sanitation facilities will be upgraded at various locations including Olifantsbad, Homob, Thatch Roof, Okerfontein, Andoni, Sprokieswood, Springbokfontein, and Sonderkop.
“We will also construct two new Comfort Stops at M’Bari, located between Okaukuejo and Olifantsrus. The entire project is expected to be completed by July 2025 and is projected to cost N$40.7 Million,” Muyunda said.
The refurbishment plan also includes renovations to the current entrance gates at Anderson, Von Lindqeuist, and King Nehale Lya Mpingana.
“Travellers visiting Etosha using these gates should be aware that there will be disruptions and possibly dust, so caution must be observed where required. During this process, safety protocols at the gates will be implemented by the contractor. Renovations have already begun at the Anderson gate,” he added.
In addition to the entrance gates, some sanitation facilities at Etosha National Park will be upgraded to comfort stops. These stops will feature toilets, picnic areas, information displays, viewing platforms, and adequate parking areas, all safely enclosed.
“The objective is to invite visitors travelling from one part of the park to another to take a rest on the long journey, access the information displays, and enjoy the tranquility of nature in a safe and appealing environment,” Muyunda stated.
“Similarly, the Ministry will also upgrade facilities and infrastructure in Hardap National Park for N$7.2 million. This will include upgrading three existing gates (Main Gate, Fish Route Gate & Game Park Gate), in addition to two existing ablution facilities or picnic spots (Lorralei & Bakvis), and the construction of four new ablution facilities and picnic spots.”
Muyunda mentioned that the upgrades are financed through the NamParks project, a development programme of the Government of the Republic of Namibia executed by MEFT and co-financed by the Federal Republic of Germany via the KfW Development Bank.
MEFT established the Namibia National Parks Programme (NamParks) in 2006 with support from the German Government through the German Development Bank KfW. The programme contributes to the ecological and economic development of the Namibian component of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA).
