Windhoek – In appreciation of Namibia’s rich natural resources, and globally admired landscapes, Namibia Breweries Limited (NBL) – a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group – has once again sponsored a clean-up operation in the Fish River Canyon, conducted by and in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Tourism (MET), Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR), Gondwana Nature Reserve; NamDeb Diamond Corporation, NamPlace and park neighbours.
The Fish River Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world and one of Namibia’s prime tourist attractions. The project which took place recently, was the third one conducted by government since its inception in 2012. The initiative by government to clean the Fish River Canyon on a regular basis, comes as a result of the dirty condition the canyon finds itself in, after the annual world popular hiking season – attended by hikers from all corners of the globe – ended. The hiking season at the canyon takes place annually from May to September.
Managing Director of NBL Wessie van der Westhuizen said Namibia’s natural resources form a critical part of the positive reputation of the country, and also of its economic future. “Visitors to the country fall in love with the unique beauty they encounter. O&L’s purpose ‘Creating a future, enhancing life’ does not only apply to bettering and enriching the livelihoods of its employees and surrounding communities, but also aims to take care of Namibia’s natural heritage, which contributes greatly to the growth of the local tourism sector.”
According to the Ministry of Environment and Tourism, 45 volunteers, including staff members from the Directorate of Environmental Affairs of South Africa, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, and nearby towns took part in the clean-up operation. They were divided into three groups, which eventually cleaned up an area covering 90 kilometres.
This covers the /Ai/Ais Hot Spring Game Park, which has been in existence since 1967, while the Trans-Frontier Park has been in existence since the signing of the Trans-Frontier park agreement by Namibia’s former president Dr Sam Nujoma and South Africa’s Thabo Mbeki in August 2003.
This year NBL supported the cause with a drinks and cash donation short of N$20 000. Van der Westhuizen said: “We are proud to be part of this initiative. Namibia’s rich natural assets are priceless, hence NBL gladly assists in endeavours that take care of our country and her people.”
by Staff Reporter