Windhoek: The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has announced plans to allocate over N.dollars 45 million towards the protection and management of key species and natural habitats. This initiative aims to safeguard endangered species and preserve natural environments across the country.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the announcement was made by Minister Indileni Daniel during her presentation of the ministerial budget allocation of N.dollars 727 million in the National Assembly. The minister emphasized the importance of conserving high-value species such as elephants, rhinos, and pangolins, which are increasingly threatened by poaching activities.
The ministry has conducted aerial and ground-based wildlife surveys to evaluate the status of wildlife in selected communal area conservancies and state-protected areas. More than 200 black and white rhinos have been captured and de-horned as part of efforts to protect them from poachers. Minister Daniel stressed the need for enhanced protective measures to safeguard these animals further.
In addition to conservation efforts, the ministry has been active in promoting wildlife-based economic activities. Animals have been captured and translocated to conservancies and protected areas, creating job opportunities through new and existing tourism concessions. These initiatives aim to benefit communities living inside and near state-protected areas.
The ministry has also earmarked N.dollars 51 million for tourism growth and development, including gaming regulation. Minister Daniel highlighted the rebound in tourist arrivals, with numbers rising from 169,565 during the Covid-19 pandemic to 863,872, according to the tourist statistical report for 2023.
Furthermore, the ministry plans to implement infrastructure maintenance and development projects with an allocation of over N.dollars 33 million. These projects will focus on the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of critical infrastructure, ensuring that activities are executed to agreed standards and specifications.
Finally, Minister Daniel outlined plans for a policy coordination and support services programme with a budget of N.dollars 131 million. This programme will oversee the implementation of 30 apprenticeships, 50 internships, and 25 graduate internships for the 2025/2026 financial year. These initiatives aim to enhance youth employability, promote economic empowerment, and address socio-economic challenges such as unemployment and skills gaps.