Namibia’s Wildlife Economy: A global conservation success story

A new documentary produced for the Namibian Chamber of Environment (NCE) has shed light on Namibia’s remarkable journey in wildlife conservation, positioning the country as a global leader in sustainable wildlife management.

Directed by Andy Botelle and produced by MaMoKoBo Video & Research, Namibia’s Wildlife Economy explores the evolution of conservation policies in Namibia and southern Africa, from colonial times to present-day frameworks that prioritise community rights and ecological sustainability. The documentary is available in two versions—a 7-minute mini-documentary and a 36-minute full-length feature—and includes interviews with scientists, government officials, community leaders, and private landowners.

Today, Namibia boasts the largest free-roaming population of black rhinos and co-hosts the world’s largest population of savannah elephants. Through its rights-based approach to conservation, the country has empowered local communities and farmers to benefit directly from wildlife, creating incentives that make wildlife management a more viable land-use strategy than traditional farming.

The film doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations, including the controversial role of trophy hunting in conservation. Experts in the documentary argue that regulated hunting forms part of a broader wildlife economy that funds anti-poaching efforts and rural development while incentivising the preservation of natural ecosystems.

Director of Parks and Wildlife, Bennett Kahuure

“We really have done tremendously well with our conservation policies,” said Bennett Kahuure, Director of Parks and Wildlife in the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.

Despite Namibia’s success, the film warns that international restrictions on the use and trade of wildlife, particularly opposition to trophy hunting from countries like the United Kingdom, threaten to derail progress.

Dr Chris Brown, CEO of the Namibian Chamber of Environment, said that giving communities rights over wildlife is central to sustainable conservation:

“You generate huge conservation benefits as a result—with people at the heart of it.”

The documentary series, including the mini-feature, full version and 11 extended interviews, can be viewed and downloaded via: https://vimeo.com/showcase/11337753.

For more information, contact Dr Chris Brown at ceo@n-c-e.org or Ms Henriette Krohne-Frey at admin@n-c-e.org.