By Elina-Ombili Shishaki |
The Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Ms Indileni Daniel, has expressed concern that Namibia is on the verge of losing its biodiversity—largely driven by human activities.
Daniel’s concern was expressed during the commemoration of the International Day for Biological Diversity, held today in Otjiwarongo, in the Otjozondjupa Region.
In a speech delivered on her behalf by Mr Timoteus Mufeti, Environmental Commissioner at the Ministry, Daniel emphasised that biodiversity is vital for life on Earth, and that its conservation and sustainable use are fundamental to the planet’s survival.
“Namibia is currently updating the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan for the period 2025 to 2031, which will guide efforts to halt biodiversity loss and promote sustainable development,” said Daniel.
She further noted that the Ministry is preparing to introduce the Wildlife Protected Areas Management Bill, which will be regularly amended to address evolving environmental challenges.
“The government has put in place legislative frameworks, including the Environmental Management Act, Forest Act, Marine Resources Act, and Nature Conservation Ordinance,” the Minister added.
Moreover, she identified the primary drivers of biodiversity loss as climate change, invasive species, overexploitation of natural resources, pollution, and land use changes such as agriculture and urban expansion.
“There is also a need to tackle rising temperatures, degraded habitats, invasive plant species threatening wildlife, marine ecosystem changes caused by warming waters, and human activities such as overfishing and pollution,” she stated.
“This is a global crisis that requires collective action. Therefore, the Ministry urges all Namibians to adopt sustainable practices in the use of natural resources to protect our environmental heritage.”
According to the United Nations and recent scientific studies, nearly half of all marine species are at risk due to climate change.
The World Wildlife Fund’s Living Planet Report of 2024 highlighted this crisis, revealing a 73% global decline in wildlife populations over the past 50 years.
“Only about 16% of land and 8% of oceans worldwide are under protection. To address these challenges, the Namibian government is reforming its policy and regulatory frameworks to support Green, Blue, and Circular economies focused on long-term sustainability,” the report mandates.
To support these efforts, the Ministry has begun recruiting Environmental Officers who will be appointed by the Minister to volunteer and assist the government in fulfilling its environmental mandate.
“This requires inclusive participation to help the government implement its strategic plan. These efforts will strengthen our ability to promote equality, sustainability, respect for traditional knowledge, and the empowerment of local communities.
“This is a collective effort to achieve the goal of protecting biodiversity, which is vital as much of the Namibian economy depends on it,” added the Minister.
Otjozondjupa Governor, Mr John //Khamuseb, in a speech read by newly elected Otjozondjupa Regional Chairperson and Tsunkwe Constituency Councilor Mr Johannes Hausiku, urged the public to prioritise biodiversity protection.
“Biodiversity supports livelihoods and generates income for millions of people,” he said.
“Most of our essential medicines, including antibiotics and pain relievers, are derived from natural compounds,” added //Khamuseb.
The International Day for Biological Diversity is celebrated annually on May 22. This year’s theme was “Harmony with Nature and Sustainable Development.”
Hosted by the Otjozondjupa Regional Council, the event saw full participation from stakeholders and representatives of various ministries.
To commemorate the day, the Ministry distributed various plant species to attendees, which will be monitored and cared for until the next year’s celebration.
In the photo: Mr Timoteus Mufeti delivering the Environment, Forestry and Tourism minister’s speech. Stakeholders from various institutions and learners from various local schools who came to commemorate the International Biodiversity Day in Otjiwarongo.
[Photos: Elina-Ombili Shishaki]
