Is Namibia a Sustainable Destination?

Namibia is increasingly being recognised as a sustainable destination. Article 95 of the Namibian Constitution ensures the “maintenance of ecosystems, essential ecological processes and biological diversity” while promoting the sustainable use of natural resources for current and future generations. The government also established laws allowing communities to form “conservancies,” enabling them to manage and benefit from their own natural resources. Over the past three decades, Namibia has introduced over 30 new conservation laws, building on South Africa’s existing regulations. These laws help protect wildlife, preserve vital natural areas for tourism, and prevent land contamination. Namibia’s approach not only prioritises the protection of the physical environment but also values the “cultural and natural heritage” of its people, alongside the air, soil, and water. This comprehensive legal framework and proactive strategies have been successful in preserving the country’s diverse wildlife and attracting international tourists, ensuring long-term benefits for both the environment and local communities.

More than a third of the country is under conservation

At independence in 1990, only 14% of Namibia's land was designated as national parks under conservation management. Today, this figure has grown to over 38% of the country's land area, thanks to the expansion of national parks, tourism concessions, communal conservancies and community forests. Additionally, freehold farms adhering to conservation principles further enhance this area, creating a connected landscape that allows wildlife to roam freely.

Three times as many elephants

Since community conservation efforts began around 1996, Namibia's elephant population has surged from 7,000 to over 22,000. Community conservation and human-wildlife conflict management in Namibia have boosted elephant populations by involving local communities in protection efforts, compensating for livestock losses, mitigating conflicts, and raising awareness, which fosters coexistence and support for wildlife. While poaching remains a constant threat, conservancy game guards play a crucial role in combating organised wildlife crime and protecting these majestic animals.

Increased lion populations

Lions face significant threats across Africa, often targeted by farmers due to livestock losses. However, in Namibia, their population has grown notably, expanding from the renowned Etosha Park westward through the arid Kunene region to the Skeleton Coast, and also increasing in the riverine woodlands of the northeast. This recovery is attributed to successful conservation strategies, such as habitat protection, community-based wildlife management, and anti-poaching measures, which have fostered a safer and more sustainable environment for lions.

World’s largest population of free-ranging black rhino

Black rhinos are critically endangered, but the Namibian government has entrusted their care to communal conservancies and tourism concessions. In these areas, conservancy game guards and rhino rangers, trained by Save the Rhino Trust, provide essential protection for these iconic animals through intensive anti-poaching patrols, advanced tracking, community involvement, habitat management, specialised training, collaboration with conservation organisations and legal measures.

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Overall, while there is always room for improvement, Namibia's commitment to sustainability makes it a strong contender as a responsible travel destination.