Southern conservancies reflect on CBNRM model

Southern Namibia requires a greater and much deeper reflection in terms of its community based natural resource management (CBNRM) model.“Is the conservancy approach working for the south? What needs to be done to make it work better?” chairperson of the Namibian Association of CBNRM Support Organisations (NACSO), Ronny Dempers, asked recently at the southern conservancy chairperson’s forum in Keetmanshoop.“I consider that there is a greater need for diversification options and out of the box thinking if this approach is to contribute towards livelihood improvements of the communal residents,” he said.“I would consider the diversification of income streams, such as the potential for renewable energy, the much talked about green hydrogen initiative, and how conservancies can benefit from other opportunities such as the Neckartal Dam to unlock agriculture potential; the need for improved water conservation and management, grazing and rangeland management combined with livestock improvement and livestock marketing options should also be part of resources to be supported.”Successful partnershipsHe said the success achieved by the CBNRM programme is because it is anchored around the principle of partnerships.“CBNRM and its success thus far would not have been possible if it was not for the partnerships between government, civil society, donors and the private sector.”Cooperation between government, civil society, communities, private sector and traditional leaders has been a hallmark that contributed to the success of the world acclaimed Namibian CBNRM programme, Dempers said.According to him the CBNRM model has been put to the test in the region.“This was seen with the registration of Oskop Conservancy in 2001, as the first registered conservancy. We have also seen the formation of water point associations and other CBNRM formations in both Hardap and //Karas regions."Take stockIn light of the environment ministry’s suggestion that a national CBNRM stocktaking process be undertaken, Dempers said: “An important question to ask as part of the stocktaking process is to what extend has the CBNRM model contributed towards improving livelihoods. Or what potential exists to make the model work for the southern communal residents?”

Southern conservancies reflect on CBNRM model

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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Southern conservancies reflect on CBNRM model

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-18

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