Bravery Kabula
The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has officially handed over newly built and renovated infrastructure worth N$166 million across Namibia’s national parks, in a move aimed at strengthening conservation and improving tourism.
The upgrades, carried out in Etosha, Hardap and Bwabwata national parks, were co-funded by the Namibian and German governments through KfW Development Bank.
The inauguration ceremony took place on 28 March 2026 at Ombika in Etosha National Park, where officials unveiled upgraded entrance gates, new comfort stops and improved duty stations for Wildlife Protection Services (WPS).
According to the ministry, the developments are expected to improve park management, enhance visitor experience and strengthen efforts to protect wildlife.
The upgrades form part of the Namibia National Parks Programme (NamParks), which received support through a COVID-19 response fund to help maintain operations in protected areas during the pandemic.
In Etosha, key improvements include renovations at the Ombika, Namutoni, and King Nehale gates, as well as upgraded ablution facilities, picnic areas, and viewing platforms. Hardap National Park also saw renovations at its main gate and other entry points, as well as the construction of new ablution facilities.
Additional investments were directed toward strengthening anti-poaching efforts under the Integrated Wildlife Protection Management Project. New infrastructure includes wildlife protection stations in Bwabwata, Etosha, and the Kunene region.
These facilities include staff housing, offices, service blocks and upgraded water and power systems, aimed at improving working conditions for rangers and boosting their capacity to combat wildlife crime.
The handover ceremony was officiated by Environment Minister Indileni Daniel, National Planning Commission Director General Kaire Mbuende and German Ambassador Thorsten Hutter.
Officials said the project reflects ongoing cooperation between Namibia and Germany and supports national efforts to promote sustainable tourism, protect wildlife and support local communities.