Paratus Namibia is supporting the Desert Lion Conservation Trust by providing satellite connectivity to the organisation's research station at Möwe Bay, enabling conservation teams to remain connected, coordinate field operations and process critical data in north-west Namibia.
According to Paratus, the support comes at a critical time, with fewer than 100 desert-adapted lions believed to remain in the region. The animals roam vast landscapes that overlap with communal farming areas, making the management of human-wildlife conflict essential for both lion conservation and the protection of local livelihoods.
For more than 20 years, the Trust has monitored the unique lion population in partnership with the environment and tourism ministry and community-based conservation partners.
Paratus said that reliable connectivity at the Möwe Bay base camp enables researchers to process tracking information and maintain communication with lion rangers operating in areas such as Purros and Sesfontein. Through early warning systems linked to GPS-collared lions, rangers receive alerts when animals enter high-risk zones, allowing them to intervene before conflicts with livestock owners arise.
Paratus Group Chief Development Officer Barney Harmse said the company's contribution extends beyond providing internet access.
"This is about more than connectivity. It is about enabling conservation and helping the work of the DLCT remain vital and effective. We are proud to support the protection of a unique and vulnerable lion population, while helping those on the ground respond where it matters most," he said.
The Desert Lion Conservation Trust founder Dr Flip Stander said dependable communication is essential for conservation work in such an isolated environment.
"Having reliable communication at Möwe Bay allows us to coordinate our work, manage data effectively and support rangers in key areas where timely information can make a real difference to the livelihood of the lions and local communities," Stander said.
Although researchers still face challenges accessing real-time connectivity while working in the field, the satellite solution significantly improves coordination once teams return to base, ensuring that monitoring data, field reports and conservation responses can be managed efficiently.
Paratus said that the partnership highlights the growing role of technology in conservation, demonstrating how reliable communications infrastructure can strengthen wildlife protection, improve responses to human-wildlife conflict and support communities living alongside one of Africa's rarest lion populations in one of the continent's most challenging environments.
