Namibia’s Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme contributed N$109 million to the national economy in 2025, reflecting its growing role in conservation and rural economic development.
Environment, Forestry and Tourism Minister Indileni Daniel said the programme continues to deliver both economic and social value, particularly for rural communities.
“Namibia’s community-based natural resource management is a unique programme that provides rural communities with incentives to manage their natural resources, while unlocking tourism opportunities and benefits from the sustainable use of forests and wildlife,” Daniel said.
The programme, which began in the 1980s as a community-led response to poaching, was formalised through the Nature Conservation Amendment Act of 1996, granting communities rights over wildlife and other natural resources.
Further support is provided through the Forest Act of 2001 and the Traditional Authorities Act of 2000, while a new Wildlife and Protected Areas Management Bill is expected to strengthen the framework.
Daniel said communal conservancies now cover about 186,000 square kilometres, equivalent to 60.7% of communal land, and support around 244,000 residents.
The programme has also created employment, with 87 communal conservancies and 48 community forests employing 2,591 people, including 742 game and forest guards.
“Community empowerment and ownership of natural resources remain central to the CBNRM policy,” Daniel said.
She added that partnerships between government, civil society and local communities have been key to the programme’s success.
“The success of communal conservancies and community forests demonstrates how natural resources can drive wealth creation and support sustainable livelihoods,” Daniel said.
