Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Lugeretzia Kooper
Published on 2024-03-22 08:52:50
The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism recently announced that Namibia has been successful in its conservation efforts, allowing the country to donate wild animals for national events. This decision was made in light of the 34th Independence Day celebrations in Katima Mulilo, where a wildlife donation was made for consumption.
There were concerns raised by the public regarding the donation of various wild animals to be slaughtered and served for lunch at the national event. However, the ministry defended its actions, stating that the donation was guided by conservation principles outlined in legal instruments such as the Constitution. The donation included 10 buffaloes, three kudus, two blue wildebeest, two hippos, one elephant, and impalas.
Zambezi governor Lawrence Sampofu had earlier announced that attendees at the Independence Day celebration would be treated to a lunch of game meat. Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda emphasized that the donation was made based on scientific data and in a sustainable manner to benefit Namibians without endangering the populations of the species.
Muyunda highlighted the importance of utilizing natural resources, especially on a day like Independence Day, to reflect on the country’s achievements in conservation over the past 34 years. He mentioned that the conservation program in Namibia has not only led to wildlife population growth but has also improved the socio-economic status of the people by creating opportunities for employment and income generation.
All the wild meat donated was sourced locally within the region, addressing concerns about the sourcing of the meat. However, there were questions raised about the quantity of meat donated, which Zambezi chief regional officer Regina Ndopu-Lubinda mentioned could only be clarified by the catering chairperson.
The history of using wild animals for public events was also mentioned, with a reference to former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe’s controversial 91st birthday celebration in 2015. Mugabe’s event involved serving a young elephant, two buffaloes, sables, impalas, a lion, and a crocodile to his guests, sparking criticism from wildlife conservationists and opposition members at the time.
In conclusion, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism defended its decision to donate wild animals for the Independence Day celebration, emphasizing the country’s successful conservation efforts and the responsible utilization of natural resources. The donation was seen as a way to showcase Namibia’s achievements in wildlife conservation and its positive impact on the economy and society.
Read the original article on The Namibian
