Human-wildlife conflict remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Namibia’s communal conservancies, particularly in regions where communities live in proximity to predators such as lions, hyenas, and leopards. Livestock losses not only threaten household incomes but also undermine community support for conservation. In response to this challenge, the Poverty-Oriented Support to Community Conservation in Namibia (POSCCIN) Project continues to deliver practical, community-driven solutions that promote coexistence.

Minister Indileni Daniel joined stakeholders on Wednesday to commemorate the 2026 Environmental Knowledge Day under the theme “Driving Sustainable Impact Through Strategic Partnerships”. The event highlighted the importance of collaboration across government, the private sector and civil society in addressing Namibia’s environmental challenges, with a strong emphasis on partnerships as a driver of sustainable impact.

The dedication and resilience of Namibia’s frontline conservationists were celebrated at the Lion Rangers 2025 Awards Ceremony, held at the Windhoek Country Club Resort during the national Community-Based Natural Resource Management (CBNRM) Conference. The prestigious awards recognised four outstanding Lion Rangers for their exceptional performance in 2025, measured primarily by the extent and consistency of foot patrols conducted throughout the year. These patrols play a critical role in monitoring lion movements, mitigating human-wildlife conflict, and safeguarding both rural livelihoods and Namibia’s iconic wildlife.

In a powerful testament to dedication, resilience and leadership, Ndjitjiuee Olga Karizemi has emerged as a leading figure in Namibia’s community-based conservation efforts, earning recognition as the top-performing female Lion Ranger. Speaking on behalf of the four award-winning Lion Rangers at a recent ceremony, Ndjitjiuee delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude, reflecting not only her personal journey but the collective commitment of those working on the frontlines of human-wildlife co-existence.