Trophy hunting vital for conservation – Shifeta

Environment, forestry and tourism minister Pohamba Shifeta says trophy hunting is vital for conservation, sustainable development and ecosystem preservation across southern Africa.

Shifeta was addressing the 11th Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) Plenary in Windhoek on Sunday.

“When properly managed and regulated, trophy hunting provides vital economic incentives that empower local communities and private landowners to become active stewards of their natural resources,” Shifeta said.

Namibia has demonstrated that trophy hunting, in collaboration with community-based conservation models, can contribute significantly to the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems, he added.

“The revenue generated from this practice directly benefits our rural communities, funding vital infrastructure such as schools, healthcare facilities and water systems, while simultaneously supporting anti-poaching initiatives and wildlife conservation efforts.

“It is for this reason that we refer to trophy hunting and other forms of hunting as conservation hunting,” Shifeta said.

IPBES was established in 2012 as an independent intergovernmental organisation that offers scientific advice to policymakers on biodiversity, ecosystems and the benefits they provide.

Shifeta said during the six-day session, two landmark reports will be launched, the Nexus Assessment Report and the Transformative Change Assessment Report.

“These reports provide vital insights into how we can address the interconnected crises of biodiversity loss, climate change, food insecurity, and public health,” he said.

The minister noted that the Nexus Report examines the complex relationships between biodiversity, water, food and health.

Meanwhile, the Transformative Change Report identifies the root causes of biodiversity decline and outlines systemic pathways to achieve the 2050 Vision for Biodiversity, according to Shifeta.

He noted that Namibia’s membership in IPBES marks a significant milestone in the country’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

“Through the efforts of conservancies, over 200 000 Namibians benefit directly from conservation initiatives, which support livelihoods through employment, income generation and community development projects,” he added.