Conservation strategies in the Nyae Nyae and N≠a Jaqna conservancies
The Nyae Nyae and N≠a Jaqna conservancies in northeastern Namibia are home to threatened species like elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos. The indigenous San communities manage these 18,000 km² of savannah, and rely on natural resources for their livelihoods. However, limited income sources, a lack of infrastructure, and illegal activities make it challenging for wildlife and their habitat to thrive.
To conserve threatened wildlife and support local communities, this project aims to support the conservancies to strengthen biodiversity conservation, improve governance, and develop alternative sources of livelihood for local communities.
Threats
Habitat loss & degradation
Human-wildlife conflict
Poaching
The project will safeguard 18,000 km² of land by improving resource management, preventing land degradation, and reducing wildfire risks. It will also restore degraded areas by planting a target 2,000 trees, with the aim of supporting soil recovery and providing fruit-bearing trees for community use.
Efforts will also focus on conserving 11 threatened species. Training community rangers will enhance monitoring efforts, while improved tracking systems, game counts, and habitat assessments will help manage wildlife populations and maintain ecosystem health. The project will also support communities living in close proximity to wildlife to mitigate conflicts.
To support livelihoods, tourism development will provide new opportunities, with community members trained in guiding, hospitality, and business skills. Schools will also take part in activities that strengthen cultural and environmental awareness. The project will also explore investment in high-end lodges and tourism ventures to boost local income.
Additionally, the project will create jobs through nature-based businesses. Sustainable consumption of Devil’s Claw and craft makers will receive training and market support, while improved conservancy governance will ensure sustainable management.
By strengthening conservation management, governance, and sustainable tourism, the project aims to create a model for community-led conservation that balances environmental health with economic resilience.
This project is implemented by Nyae Nyae Development Foundation of Namibia (NNDFN) in collaboration with TUI Care Foundation and IUCN.
