Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Absalom Shigwedha
Published on 2024-04-13 06:00:00
A collaborative effort across southern Africa is making significant progress in the understanding and preservation of biodiversity, with Namibia taking the lead in mapping its desert ecosystems and uncovering hundreds of unique species.
The ‘Building Biodiversity Knowledge for Action in Southern Africa’ project, spearheaded by the Namibia University of Science and Technology (Nust), has focused on developing a comprehensive mapping of ecosystems in the Namib Desert. Tuhafeni Gottlieb, the project coordinator, shared this development in Windhoek recently.
The project, in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism, Nust, the National Museum of Namibia (NMN), and the National Botanical Research Institute (NBRI), aims to differentiate between various aspects such as climate, geomorphology, soil, and vegetation types through ecosystem mapping.
The NBRI has also highlighted 373 endemic and 116 near endemic species to be assessed by the project. Furthermore, the project has successfully updated outdated International Union for the Conservation of Nature Red-Listed species, conducted assessments on insect groups, and organized workshops on mapping and classification.
In addition to these accomplishments, the project has prioritized capacity building by hiring interns and a doctoral student. The primary goal is to enhance national knowledge bases on biodiversity, enabling informed land use planning, decision-making, development of environmental policies and strategies, and serving as a foundation for future biodiversity monitoring.
The project commenced in July 2022 and is scheduled to conclude in June 2027, showcasing a long-term commitment to biodiversity conservation and research in Namibia and the broader southern African region. The efforts of various stakeholders, including academic institutions, government bodies, and research organizations, have been crucial in advancing these initiatives.
With the support of organizations like Nust, NMN, and NBRI, Namibia is at the forefront of biodiversity conservation and research in the region. By prioritizing ecosystem mapping, species assessments, and capacity building, the country is laying the groundwork for sustainable environmental practices and informed decision-making.
As the project progresses, it is expected to yield valuable data and insights that will guide conservation efforts, policy formulation, and sustainable development initiatives. By working together and leveraging collective expertise, southern African countries can make significant strides in protecting their unique ecosystems and biodiversity for future generations.
In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in Namibia and southern Africa are crucial in advancing biodiversity conservation and research. Through initiatives like the ‘Building Biodiversity Knowledge for Action in Southern Africa’ project, the region is making tangible progress in understanding, mapping, and protecting its rich natural heritage. By investing in biodiversity conservation, these efforts not only benefit the environment but also contribute to sustainable development and the well-being of local communities.
Read the original article on The Namibian
