Namibia is on the cusp of significant conservation advancements, potentially reshaping how its stunning natural landscapes are preserved for generations to come. Two key initiatives, spearheaded by the Namibia Nature Foundation (NNF), are taking center stage. Let's dive in!
Firstly, there's a community-driven conservation corridor in the works, designed to link the iconic Skeleton Coast and Etosha National Parks. This project is fueled by a contract signed by the NNF in October 2025 to support the Legacy Landscape Fund (LLF), managed by WWF Namibia. The LLF has committed a substantial US$1 million annually for over 50 years to bolster these protected areas.
Now, the focus is broadening to encompass the vast landscape nestled between the two parks, specifically within the Kunene region. This area is home to more than 14 communal conservancies, including well-known names like Sorris Sorris, Doro !Nawas, Tsiseb, and Torra. Here, the NNF is facilitating discussions on a 'People's Park' model, emphasizing community ownership and collaborative management across connected conservancies.
"NNF's role is to support interested conservancies in exploring this model," explains Disney Andreas, NNF's communications officer, pointing to the Ombondes Peoples Park in Kunene as a successful example. The NNF is actively supporting community meetings and covering logistical, transport, and technical planning costs, including addressing human-wildlife conflict. But here's where it gets interesting: The NNF is strictly a facilitator, with the ultimate decision resting with the conservancies themselves, whether they choose to proceed individually or collectively.
Simultaneously, a separate national initiative is underway: the establishment of a Gondwana Land Geopark around the Brandberg area. This idea stems from a UNESCO recommendation, with the initial proposal developed by the German development agency GIZ. To gain insights, a task team, including NNF representatives, embarked on a study visit to Kenya, which is developing a similar geopark model.
Clemens Naomab, a senior development officer at NNF and a member of the national geopark task team, stated that the last task team meeting aimed to expedite the process, with consultations already held with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism. During these discussions, potential implementing partners were considered, and the NNF was proposed as a possible agency for the Brandberg area. And this is the part most people miss: The final structure of the geopark hinges on feedback from UNESCO regarding submitted proposals.
In essence, the NNF's role is clearly defined: as a facilitator in the Kunene conservancies, supporting a community-led process, and as a participant in government-led discussions regarding the Brandberg geopark, where its role as an implementing agency is still under consideration.
What are your thoughts on these initiatives? Do you think the 'People's Park' model is a viable approach? Share your opinions in the comments below!
