WINDHOEK – Farms and game reserves in Namibia are bracing for the ensuing drought to the extent that the massive Erindi Game Reserve between Okahandja and Otjiwarongo yesterday confirmed that they have spent between N$3 million and N$4 million on purchasing 40 000 bales of lucerne to feed their more than 20 000 animals.
“I am scared of this year, as the drought seems to have worsened and my fear is that the lucerne could become much more expensive in the near future,” said Erindi’s co-owner, Gert Joubert.
Speaking to New Era from Cape Town, South Africa, Joubert admitted that he might be overreacting with the massive purchase to feed the diverse range of wildlife on the game reserve, but was quick to add that in severe cases of drought, it is better to play it safe. “One benefit is that tourists will be able to capture spectacular sightings, as animals will gather at feeding stations. This is even more applicable to Erindi where we have had very good breeding during the last year,” noted Joubert.
The Erindi Game Reserve used to be an over-stocked and over-grazed cattle farm, which caused severe damage to the natural vegetation. The farm was later converted to a hunting venture after the erection of an electrified game fence. Owners Gert Joubert and his nephew, Paul Joubert, gradually phased out cattle farming entirely and re-introduced numerous species in large numbers that once occurred naturally in the area.
When hunting in Erindi was finally halted in 2007, the reserve was transformed into a nature conservation venture. During the last few years, Erindi has successfully transformed itself into a unique ecotourism and conservation venture and now constantly implements and monitors programmes across all aspects of the land rehabilitation process.