Probe into wildlife keeping

ELLANIE SMIT



WINDHOEK

The environment ministry has formed a national task team to investigate incidents that have surfaced where owners of private farms, land and other facilities are keeping game and other wildlife without the necessary permits.

It has also been observed that those in possession of the permits do not comply with the conditions attached to such permits.

Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda yesterday said the ministry is concerned about people keeping wildlife and game in a manner contrary or conflicting to the provisions of the Nature Conservation Ordinance and the Wildlife Products and Trade Act.

“The ministry wishes to make it categorically clear that the prudent management of the country’s natural resources - including wildlife - is based on legislation and policies.”

Muyunda said the abundance of biodiversity of Namibia is because of the country’s stringent legislation, policies and strategies.

He stressed that it is unlawful to keep wild animals and game without the necessary permits.

The task team will investigate and take the necessary and appropriate measures against those found in contradiction of the laws and regulations governing the keeping of game and other wild animals on private farms, land and facilities, Muyunda said.

“This is solely meant to restore order and to ensure full compliance with the existing laws and regulations governing the use of natural resources.”