The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism is set to launch a transformative project to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and combat wildlife crime in three key landscapes in Namibia.
The Integrated Approach to Proactive Management of Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) and Wildlife Crime (WC) Project will directly benefit 4,520 people (2,300 men and 2,220 women) and indirectly impact an additional 18,100 (7,900 men and 10,200 women).
The project’s targeted areas include the North Central landscape (incorporating Etosha National Park), the North West landscape (Kunene Region) and the North East landscape (spanning the Bwabwata-Mudumu National Park complex within the KAZA Transfrontier Conservation Area).
According to Red Dune Consulting, conducting the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), key activities include upgrading water infrastructure, constructing protective barriers and implementing innovative monitoring systems to foster coexistence between humans and wildlife.
“The focus of this project is to address pressing challenges in these regions through practical measures that benefit both the environment and the communities who depend on it,” said a consultant from Red-Dune Consulting.
In the North West landscape, eight water infrastructure points will be rehabilitated to enhance water access for local communities.
“Additionally, four new boreholes will be drilled and equipped with solar pumps, water tanks and troughs to supply both wildlife and human populations. The installation of three elephant protection walls in hotspot areas such as Otjindakui, Okanuunambuku and Okakongo will further reduce conflicts over water resources,” said Red Dune.
Furthermore, to safeguard livestock from predators, three predator-proof kraals will be constructed in villages within the Sesfontein Conservancy.
“Two early warning towers will also be installed to alert communities of the presence of problem animals, while satellite collars will be used to track the movements of key predators and elephants traversing the region. By proactively addressing human-wildlife interactions, the project reduces the risk of conflict while promoting harmony between people and wildlife,” the consultant added.
Beyond conflict mitigation, the project strengthens anti-poaching efforts through the procurement of specialised equipment for field staff.
The consultant that this includes night scopes, forensic wildlife crime scene kits, hand-held radios and digital cameras, which are expected to enhance the capacity of anti-poaching teams to combat wildlife crime and protect high-value species.
“This initiative not only focuses on the conservation of wildlife but also integrates community empowerment by generating economic opportunities through wildlife-related enterprises,” the consultant noted.
Expected outcomes of the project include a measurable reduction in human-wildlife conflict incidents, improved response to such incidents, strengthened anti-poaching measures and growth in wildlife-based economies.
Furthermore, enhanced coordination and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders are also key objectives, aiming to create a sustainable model for managing human-wildlife interactions in Namibia.
