Windhoek (nn/ak) • Many conservancies under community ownership still depend on private operators, according to Tourism Minister Indileni Daniel. Most lack the capital and expertise to develop and manage awarded concessions on their own. For this reason, communities often ask the ministry for support in identifying investors and operators.
Daniel made these remarks in response to questions from member of the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC), Rodrick Likando in parliament last week. She stressed that concession tenders are competitive. Bidders follow regional benchmarks and offer a share of their net turnover as a concession fee. For lodge developments this should usually be at least eight percent, while campsite projects should offer no less than six percent. According to Daniel, operators invest large sums in infrastructure and equipment. These funds must be returned during the concession period, while jobs and community projects are created in the surrounding areas.
When a concession expires, all developed infrastructure becomes state property and is then made available to the respective conservacy.
The Tourism Ministry (MEFT) is already assisting community areas in several fields. Daniel highlighted the Community Conservation Fund of Namibia, which mobilises additional financial support. Addressing conflicts within protected areas, she said no officials permit illegal settlements. New homesteads usually arise because members of community areas or nearby residents search for grazing, relocate due to climate pressures or move closer to wildlife water points. The ministry continues to encourage amicable and out-of-court solutions to land disputes.
Daniel underlined the broader value of concessions for the economy and for tourism. They grant visitors access to landscapes that are normally closed to the public and expand the range of travel and hunting opportunities. At the same time, revenue from the use of native wildlife and plant resources flows to the state and to communities. Through tourism, hunting and other natural resources, concessions can help improve the economic prospects of previously disadvantaged Namibians.
