Staff Reporter
THE Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has officially inaugurated newly constructed and renovated infrastructure across Etosha, Hardap, and Bwabwata National Parks, reinforcing wildlife protection efforts and improving visitor experiences. The upgrades, valued at N$166 million, were co-funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) through KfW Development Bank and the Namibian Government.
The handover ceremony, held at Ombika in Etosha National Park, marked the formal transfer of upgraded park entrance gates, comfort stops, and Wildlife Protection Services (WPS) duty stations, including new facilities at Buffalo and Susuwe West stations in Bwabwata, Leeudrink and Otjovasandu stations in Etosha, and the Sesfontein station in the Kunene Region.
Photos: Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism
The infrastructure improvements, part of the Namibia National Parks Programme (NamParks) and supported by COVID-19 Fund investments, include enhanced ablution facilities, picnic areas, viewing platforms, information signage, staff houses, offices, service blocks, storerooms, administration buildings, carports, and upgrades to power, water, sewage, and fencing, as well as kennels for K9 units.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Indileni Daniel highlighted that the developments strengthen operational efficiency for park staff, improve visitor experiences, and contribute to reducing wildlife crime. The event was also attended by Dr. Kaire Mbuende, Director-General of the National Planning Commission, and Dr. Thorsten Hutter, Ambassador of Germany to Namibia.
The handover underscores the long-standing partnership between Namibia and Germany in environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. Since 1990, Germany has contributed more than €1.6 billion (approximately N$32 billion) in financial and technical support to Namibia, with ongoing KfW projects totalling about €600 million (N$12 billion) and future projects planned at approximately €32 million (N$640 million).
This milestone demonstrates a continued commitment to protecting Namibia’s natural heritage, supporting economic resilience, developing tourism, and empowering local communities.
Photos: Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism
