Less than half of Namibia’s environment, forestry and tourism ministry’s 2025/2026 development budget was executed, raising serious concerns over project delivery.
Of the N$70 million allocated for nine programmes and thirty-eight capital projects, only N$31.1 million – or 45% – was spent.
“This level of budget execution is concerning,” minister Indileni said in her annual staff address, urging staff to continue demonstrating professionalism and commitment to ensure that resources are fully utilised for the benefit of conservation and tourism development.
Despite the low execution rate, Daniel acknowledged the dedication and resilience of personnel, noting that achievements in 2025 were “first and foremost a reflection of their dedication.”
She said that rangers and wardens safeguarded protected areas and wildlife, forestry officials promoted sustainable use of resources, and tourism officers supported recovery initiatives, while administrative and technical staff ensured planning, financial management, and reporting obligations were met.
According to Daniel, key projects were also completed successfully. These include infrastructure developments at Ngoma, Namutoni, Mukwe, K1 and K2, Hobas, and the Fish River Canyon water pipeline, alongside the inauguration of the Swakopmund Office and completion of the Okahandja Forestry Office.
Progress was also made on the Tourist Road Upgrade project in Etosha, which is considered crucial for improving access to tourism destinations and supporting local economic activity.
Daniel said that these investments remain critical in strengthening operational capacity, improving working conditions for staff, and enhancing the visitor experience in Namibia’s protected areas.
“Where challenges in implementation emerged, management intervened decisively.” She said that programme managers were required to refocus on priority outputs, improve coordination with procurement and finance units, and strengthen internal monitoring and reporting.
These steps, Saniel said, contributed to improved execution rates, clearer accountability, and better alignment between planned activities and available resources.
Daniel also acknowledged additional challenges, including budgetary pressures, transport limitations, procurement delays, capacity constraints, and operational difficulties in remote locations. These hurdles, Daniel said, highlight the ongoing need to strengthen planning, coordination, contract management, and project implementation systems.
