Stefanus Nashama
Following the continuous and more severe reports of human-wildlife conflict in the country, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism said it will host a National Conference on human-wildlife conflict engagement next week.
The Conference will take place in Windhoek, from 10 to 12 May, at the Namibia Institute of Public Administration (NIPAM).
According to the Ministry Spokesperson, Romeo Muyunda, the conference will review progress, opportunities and challenges in the implementation of the 2018 revised National Policy on human-wildlife conflict management.
It will further discuss the specific prevention, protection and investigation strategies for specific species and specific areas of the country and come up with solutions for the implementation of such strategies.
The Ministry said the conflicts have become more frequent and severe over the recent decades in the country.
This is due to the growth of human and wildlife populations, unplanned and expanded agricultural activities and industrial activities, which led to an increase in human encroachment of previously wild and uninhabited areas, the Ministry explained.
Competition for the available natural inhabitants and resources and the effect of climate change are exacerbating human-wildlife conflicts in the country.
Muyunda said the situation of human-wildlife conflict is worsened by the drought in most parts of the country over the years.
The conflict ranges from the destruction of crops and water installation to the loss of livestock, homesteads, and injuries or loss of human lives, Muyunda stated.
