WINDHOEK — The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) in Namibia has announced an increase in compensation payments under its human-wildlife conflict self-reliance scheme starting September 1, 2024. The adjustment aims to better support individuals and communities affected by conflicts with wild animals.

According to Namibia Press Agency, who spoke at a press conference on Monday, the revisions to the compensation scheme will see substantial increases across several categories. Payments for permanent disability as a result of wildlife encounters will double from N.dollars 50,000 to N.dollars 100,000. Compensation for injuries without loss of body parts will rise from N.dollars 10,000 to N.dollars 15,000, while compensation for injuries involving loss of body parts will increase from N.dollars 30,000 to N.dollars 40,000.

The scheme also outlines specific payouts for losses incurred by farmers due to wildlife, including N.dollars 5,000 for each cattle lost and smaller amounts for losses of goats, sheep, horses, donkeys, and pigs. Crop damage compensation has also been adjusted, with N.dollars 500 now being offered for damages extending to one quarter of a hectare and N.dollars 2,000 for one hectare.

Minister Shifeta explained that the decision to increase these payments followed extensive consultations held at the National Conference in May of the previous year, which involved Cabinet discussions. He emphasized that the fixed compensation of N.dollars 100,000 for funeral expenses due to human deaths caused by wildlife will remain unchanged, as it was deemed sufficient to cover necessary costs.