Namibia’s internationally acclaimed Community Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) programme is strengthening the link between conservation and rural development, Executive Director of the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Sikongo Haihambo, emphasised at the opening of the National Conference on Community Based Natural Resources Management.
The CBNRM programme aims to promote sustainable rural livelihoods while protecting Namibia’s fragile natural resource base. Through the initiative, communities can restore, secure, and enhance biodiversity and ecosystem processes, creating lasting benefits for conservancies and local populations.
“Much of the tourism in Namibia is based on wildlife viewing, our forests, wetlands, cultural experiences, and the enjoyment of our wide-open spaces,” Haihambo said. “CBNRM, therefore, plays a major role in both conservation and tourism in our country.”
Since its inception, the programme has made significant contributions to poverty alleviation and rural development, empowering communities to manage natural resources responsibly while benefiting economically. Yet, challenges remain. Haihambo highlighted governance and financial management issues in conservancies, community forests, and associations, as well as ongoing human-wildlife conflict and poaching of wild animals and plants. Addressing these challenges is a key focus of the conference.
Describing CBNRM as “an exciting episode in Namibia’s development” and “a uniquely African success story,” Haihambo stressed the importance of collaborative partnerships. Government, communities, private sector partners, donors, and CBNRM organisations work together to promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable national development.
The programme demonstrates how conservation and community empowerment can go hand in hand, supporting livelihoods, tourism, and ecosystem health. As Namibia continues to refine and expand CBNRM, it sets a powerful example for Africa and the world, showing that sustainable resource management can drive economic growth, social development, and environmental protection simultaneously.
