Opuwo: The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has launched an environmental awareness programme in the Kunene Region ahead of the commemoration of International Day for Biological Diversity on 22 May 2026 under the theme 'Acting Locally for Global Impact'.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the awareness campaign started in Opuwo on Monday and will continue in Kamanjab on 19 May and Outjo on 20 May, before the main celebrations which will take place in Khorixas on 22 May 2026.
Speaking during the information session in Opuwo, MEFT Deputy Director for Environmental Information and Natural Resource Economics, Olimpio Nhuleipo, said the International Day for Biological Diversity is a United Nations-recognised day aimed at raising awareness on the importance of biodiversity to livelihoods, economies, and environmental sustainability.
Nhuleipo stated that Namibia, as a member of the United Nations, joins other countries annually in commemorating the day to educate communities on the need to conserve natural resources. He noted that biodiversity, including wildlife, forests, and other natural resources, contributes significantly to Namibia's tourism sector and the national economy.
'The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has a constitutional mandate to protect biodiversity on behalf of the Namibian people,' he said. Nhuleipo explained that communities are allowed to utilise natural resources, but this must be done through government-issued permits to ensure sustainable use and conservation.
He mentioned that the ministry monitors wildlife populations to determine sustainable harvesting levels and prevent overexploitation of species. The deputy director further cautioned residents against environmental pollution, saying improper disposal of plastics, engine oil, and fencing materials negatively affects livestock, water sources, and ecosystems.
He also warned against overgrazing, saying land degradation reduces grazing capacity and contributes to poverty in rural communities. Nhuleipo encouraged Namibians to adopt environmentally friendly practices, including proper waste management and tree planting.
'The trees that we have in this country provide us with clean air and contribute to rainfall. We must protect existing trees and continue planting more for food, shade, and environmental sustainability,' he said. He urged all Namibians to participate in the International Day for Biological Diversity commemorations and reflect on the importance of conserving biodiversity for future generations.