OMUTHIYA – The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has reported that a total of 570 pangolins have been poached in Namibia since 2018. 

In a media statement to celebrate World Pangolin Day on Saturday, MEFT spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said the ministry has reaffirmed its dedication to protecting the nation’s pangolins, highlighting their ecological importance and the urgent need to combat threats such as habitat loss and illegal trafficking. 

He said to address concerns about pangolin trafficking, the government has developed a National Species Management plan in collaboration with the Namibian Pangolin Working Group, which will be released in 2025. “The government of Namibia remains committed to strengthening conservation efforts through legislation, enforcement and collaboration with local communities and non-government organisations like the Pangolin Conservation and Research Foundation,” he said. The ministry has rescued, released and monitored 35 pangolins over the past four years through partnerships. 

“Our goal is to ensure the long-term survival of pangolins, and protect our nation’s biodiversity,” Muyunda said. 

He also reminded the public that the trafficking of wildlife is a serious offence that could lead to arrests and sentencing. 

“To date, the heaviest sentence was nine years direct imprisonment, and the heaviest fine was N$800 000 for the trafficking of pangolin or its parts,” he said. 

He further encouraged the public to report illegal wildlife activities, and join efforts to protect pangolins by spreading awareness and supporting conservation programmes. 

“As we celebrate World Pangolin Day, Namibia calls for global cooperation to protect this unique species, and ensure a future where pangolins thrive in the wild,” Muyunda said. 

-Nampa