The drought-stricken wildlife in northwestern and northeastern Namibia is receiving a boost to its recovery. The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism (MEFT) has launched a relocation programme involving over 900 wild animals.
575 animals were captured in Etosha National Park. According to the Namibian, this involved 256 springbucks (Antidorcas marsupialis), 205 oryx antelopes (Oryx gazella) and 114 plains zebras (Equus quagga). They were transported and relocated to conservancies in the Kunene, Omusati and Otjozondjupa regions.
In the coming months, another 370 wild animals are to be relocated from Etosha. 150 oryx antelopes are earmarked for areas in the Kunene region. The Nyae Nyae Conservancy in the Otjozondjupa region will receive 20 giraffes (Giraffa giraffa) and 200 impalas (Aepyceros melampus).
The programme aims to support the recovery of wildlife populations in the affected areas following a prolonged drought. At the same time, gene pools and biodiversity are strengthened, and the food supply for predators is expanded. The latter, in turn, alleviates the conflict between livestock farmers and predators.
MEFT finances these extensive wildlife management measures also with funds from the Game Products Trust Fund (GPTF). This fund primarily feeds on fees from trophy hunting.
A large proportion of the 945 wild animals being relocated from Etosha National Park to conservation areas are springbucks. Photo (for illustrative purposes only): Sven-Eric Stender
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