The past year was one of learning and adapting for NACSO and all its partners. Despite the negative impacts of Covid-19, conservation work in Namibia continued. Before 2021 came to an end, NACSO members together with the Ministry of Environment Forestry and Tourism, came together for a three-day workshop to share successes and challenges as well as plan and budget for this new year. Extensive work goes into ensuring that the wheels of the CBNRM program keep turning. Good collaboration, teamwork, and teambuilding are important contributors to this success.
At NACSO we are thrilled to be in the office and the field with high spirits and ready to take on the tasks for the year. We look forward to building on the successes and lessons learnt from last year and continue working together to overcome any obstacles that may arise. We hope to have an impactful year together with our partners, donors, supporters, and friends.
The year starts off on a high note by welcoming two Conservation Leadership Program interns who’ll be joining our dynamic team. Meet the ladies and help us welcome them -
Soini Shatilue
I am Soini Shatilue, from Oshana region in northern Namibia. I graduated from the University of Namibia (UNAM) with a degree in Tourism Management. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Geo-Information Science and Earth Observation at Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST). I chose Tourism Management because I wasn’t sure what I wanted to pursue as a career, however with time, I learned and realised that Tourism is multifaceted and therefore does not only focus on travelling for pleasure but also touches on other areas such as environmental protection and CBNRM. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Conservation Leadership Programme as this will afford me an opportunity not only to enhance my interpersonal skills and grow at both the individual and professional level, but also assist communities to practice community-based tourism. I plan to combine my degrees and ensure that I contribute significantly to communities around Namibia in bettering their way of living and protecting the environment as well as natural resources. I want to encourage and bring awareness to others to engage in environmental activities. I have a strong interest in learning as I believe learning is a gift that continuously gives. My theoretical knowledge on CBNRM coupled with the skills I harvested during my previous jobs and internships will make a positive contribution to the Conservation Leadership Programme.
Victoria Hailapa
Victoria was born and raised in Ohangwena Region. She holds a Bachelor in Regional and Rural Development Honours obtained from the Namibia University of Science and Technology. Having been exposed to both urban and rural environments, she enrolled for this field of study to contribute and elevate the development of rural areas in Namibia. With her field of study, she was exposed to different subjects such as natural resource management, GIS, spatial planning, economic development, and community work. She brings in experience in data collection, entry and management, research and report writing. Victoria believes that we only have one earth, and we should conserve our natural resources for ourselves and the future generations. She is excited for the Conservation Leadership Programme and believes it will contribute to her personal growth while making a meaningful impact in Namibia’s rural communities through the CBNRM programme. Within the two-year internship, she plans to work hard, network and learn as much as possible.
Well wishes for the rest of 2022!
