Namibian civil society groups receive N$1.2m in resource management grants

A total of 15 civil society organisations in Namibia have been awarded N$1.2 million in grants to strengthen community advocacy regarding land, wildlife, and natural resource management. The initiative is implemented by Integrated Rural Development and Nature Conservation (IRDNC) in partnership with the Namibia Development Trust (NDT), with funding provided by the European Union.

The grants aim to empower grassroots groups to participate in decision-making processes that affect their livelihoods. IRDNC executive director John Kasaona noted that communal conservancies and community forests face increasing pressure from mining, green hydrogen, and oil and gas exploration. The funding is intended to ensure community voices are heard regarding decisions involving land, water, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

EU Ambassador Ana-Beatrize Martins stated that civil society organisations play a vital role in protecting community rights as Namibia advances its green industrialisation agenda. The European Union's support is part of its broader effort to promote transparent and accountable management of natural resources through its Global Gateway partnership.