ABSTRACT. Blue economy concept takes into account that the ocean, coastal areas, and inland surface and ground waters, and atmospheric water is all interconnected into one global water ecosystem, and its sustainability is therefore interdependent. Blue economy is simply a concept that promotes environmental sustainability, and social inclusivity in economic activities in the aquatic ecosystem. This paper explores the development of the sustainable blue economy in Namibia in relation our fisheries and aquaculture industry. It emphasizes the policy aspects, management, and contributions to the economy. It further dissects into the opportunities that exist in this space.

ABSTRACT. African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus), known for their expansive movements and adaptability to diverse landscapes, are critically endangered in Namibia. Despite their ecological importance, environmental factors that influence their resource selection are still poorly understood. This study was carried out to fill this gap by investigating the spatial use patterns and landscape preferences of two wild dog packs in the north-eastern Kalahari, Namibia. Data was collected from GPS-collared male wild dogs (one individual per pack) for a period of 12 months to assess home range sizes (95% kernel density estimates), landscape features and key determinants of their spatial use patterns across each home range.

Results revealed home range sizes larger than typical for the species, nearing the upper limits consistent for packs occurring in semi-arid regions outside protected areas. Logistic regression models and resource selection functions revealed that wild dog movement is significantly (p<0.001) influenced by several biophysical (i.e., Normalised Difference Vegetation and Water Index, and Normalised Burn Ratio), topographical (i.e., elevation and slope) and anthropogenic factors such as proximity to roads and farms for each pack. For one individual, factors such as NDVI, NDWI, and distances to roads, farms and rivers were significant predictors for resource selection. For the other, NDWI, distance to water points, drainage lines and farms were key. These findings emphasise the role of water availability and human-modified landscapes in resource selection, with implications for conservation management strategies outside of protected areas.

ABSTRACT. Forage shortages are increasing in frequency and severity, affecting livestock farmers in Namibia. Climate change has reduced rangeland productivity, carrying capacity, and livestock profitability. Although cattle grazing preferences are well documented in various ecosystems, determinants of forage and landscape selectivity in patchy, arid environments remain unknown. Thus, it is essential to understand cattle forage and landscape selectivity to prevent overgrazing. This study investigated the determinants of forage and landscape selectivity by cattle during the wet season on a farm in Central Namibia. Transects were demarcated on crests (n=13, 78 plots) and slopes (n=12, 72 plots) based on where cattle had been observed grazing, grazing signs and accessibility. In each plot, species were identified to species level, grazing status was recorded, herbaceous cover was visually estimated, and herbaceous biomass was collected. Coordinates from the first plot of each transect were recorded and used to derive slope and elevation in QGIS 3.36. Forage selectivity was determined with Jacob's Selectivity Index (JSI), which compares the proportion of grazed species to their environmental availability to determine preference or avoidance. Percentage slope, elevation, species richness, species diversity (H'), cover, and biomass were explanatory variables in the Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) to identify landscape selection determinants. The Chi-Square Test of Association revealed that cattle exhibit selective foraging behavior. The JSI demonstrated that cattle preferred grasses Eragrostis nindensis, Anthephora pubescens and forbs Cleome suffruticosa, and Tribulus terrestris. The CCA showed that explanatory variables explained 30.5% of the observed variation in landscape-type selection. The overall test of all canonical axes (F=1.3, p=0.046) was significant, with only species richness (F=1.8, p =0.01) and species diversity (F=1.7, p=0.05) significantly influencing landscape-type selection. These findings inform targeted rangeland management strategies to promote preferred species and emphasize the importance of prioritizing richness and diversity across the landscape.

ABSTRACT. The interactions between human and animals remains one of the greatest challenges for conservationists today. There is a need for a balanced coexistence between people and wildlife that minimizes the destruction of local livelihoods by wildlife and generates profits that offset losses. This study assessed the tolerance level for human towards “problem wildlife” in Salambala conservancy. Due to its proximity to the Chobe National Park, the Salambala Conservancy is home to diverse wildlife species that interact with local communities. The presence of wildlife brings both benefits and costs to the community, however it is unclear how those two contrasting factors influence tolerance toward wildlife. This study tested Wildlife Tolerance Model (WTM) which predicted that tangible benefits increase tolerance, while costs decrease tolerance toward wildlife. The objectives of the study: i) to assess perceived tangible wildlife costs and benefits, ii) assess perceived wildlife associated intangible costs and benefits, iii) to  assess how perceived costs and benefits influence local communities’ tolerance level. Data collection was done using a structured questionnaire on a Likert scale. A total of 206 respondents from 6 villages participated in the study, data analyses was done using spearman correlation. Results revealed a significant positive correlation between tolerance level toward “problem animals” and tangible benefits. An elephant tolerance level and damages to fences were negatively correlated (-0.023), and negative correlation between the tolerance level of a crocodile and ecosystem values (-0.003). Results further indicated that tolerance to wildlife is influenced by several factors such as age, education level, benefits and costs. However, no significant correlation between tolerance level and intangible benefits were found.  This study thus concluded that tolerance level is significantly influenced by intangible  and tangible costs. Human wildlife mitigation measures should therefore pay attention to the intensity of the costs and benefits.

ABSTRACT. This study compared the effects of three supplementary diets—egg yolk, Artemia, and commercial powdered pellets with 48% crude protein on the growth performance and survival rate of redbreast tilapia (Coptodon rendalli) under intensive culture conditions including a static recirculation system with aeration and daily tank siphoning at the Kamutjonga Inland Fisheries Institute in the Kavango East region of Namibia. The study was conducted from December 2023 to January 2024 using a complete randomized design replicated thrice ,Data were analyzed using a one way ANOVA and post hove Turkey test.Results showed that fish fed with commercial pellets exhibited the highest specific growth rate (1.39 ± 0.80%) compared to egg yolk (0.94 ± 0.54%) and Artemia (0.33 ± 0.19%). Commercial pellets also had the best survival rate (76.19 ± 43.099), compared to egg yolk and Artemia (70.47 ± 40.69; 33 ± 19.05), respectively. However, egg yolk had the best feed conversion ratio (0.20 ± 0.05) compared to the commercial pellets (0.22 ± 0.04) and Artemia (0.26 ± 0.07). Critical water quality parameters such as temperature (28.01 -28.14’C), dissolved oxygen ( 8.08 - 8.59 mg/L) , and pH (7.36 -7.45) were maintained within acceptable survival ranges for C. rendalli across all treatments. These findings highlight the importance of dietary protein content in optimizing the growth and survival of C. rendalli under intensive culture conditions and provide insights for effective feeding strategies. However, commercial pellets are expensive and inaccessible to small-scale fish farmers. As an alternative, egg yolk emerged as a viable and affordable feed option, promoting fish growth and supporting the establishment of small-scale farming practices in the region.

ABSTRACT. Human-wildlife conflict is a significant concern, particularly with carnivores preying on livestock. Understanding the influence of environmental factors, such as moon phases, on carnivore activity and predation patterns is vital for developing effective management strategies. This study aims to assess the seasonal association among moon phases, carnivore distribution, and carnivore livestock predation on livestock in the Mudumu landscape. Data was collected and collated from event books system from six conservancies. Carnivore sightings were collected on fixed patrols by conservancies game guards. The date, carnivore species (actual sighting or spoor), GPS location to 2 by 2 grid cell were recorded. Carnivore predation incidents were also obtained from the conservancies event books. Proportion of moon light was collected from NASA website from January 2009 to December 2021. Moonlight proportions from January 2009 to December 2021 were obtained from NASA's website and grouped into four categories: new moon (25% waning to 25% waxing), waxing (25-75% waxing), full moon (75% waxing to 75% waning), and waning (75-25% waning). A chi-square goodness-of-fit test was conducted to assess the association between moon phases, carnivore sightings, and predation incidents. The results revealed a significant correlation between moon phases and carnivore sightings (χ² = 31.3, P < 0.001) with hyenas most active during the new moon (38%), leopards during the full moon (46%), and lions during the waning moon (42%). A similar significant association was found between moon phases and carnivore predation on livestock (χ² = 78.1, P < 0.001). Hyena predation peaked during the new moon (50%), leopard predation during the full moon (46%), and lion predation during the new moon (29%). Apart from lions, a strong correlation existed between sighting frequencies and predation incidents. These findings emphasize the importance of implementing specific management strategies in Mudumu landscape to address human-wildlife conflict.

ABSTRACT. The Zambezi State Forest is one of Namibia’s few proclaimed state forests. This state forest has been in existence since the 1960s, but was not officially proclaimed until year 2022. Located at the core of the Transboundary Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA), this forest serves as an important habitat for biodiversity, an essential corridor for elephants, and a vital source of livelihood for local communities. The Zambezi State Forest is also home to various high value timber species such as Pterocarpus angolenses, Baikiaea plurijuga and Guibourtia coleosperma. Illegal forest logging has been reported extensively in the Zambezi State forest. However due to its long-standing unclear legal status, the Zambezi State forest has received limited scientific endeavours. The extent of forest clearing in the Zambezi State Forest therefore remains unknown. The objectives of this study were therefore to: (i) develop a forest clearing classification model for the Zambezi State Forest, (ii) assess time series variation in land cover dynamics of the study area, and (ii) conduct a model cross-validation with in- situ data. The study employed Remote Sensing, whereby Sentinel 2 satellite images were analysed using Google Earth Engine geospatial analysis platform. Supervised classification and Random Forest classifier were used to isolate forest-clearing hot spots from areas where there were no apparent forest clearing activities. The model revealed a significant extent of forest clearing widespread across the state forest with approximately 8, 270.87 hectares (5.7%) of this proclaimed forest reserve affected. Those alarming findings highlight the importance of stringent policies to safeguard these forest resources for generations to come.

ABSTRACT. The invasion of Eucalyptus spp. in the Zambezi region, Namibia, threatens local biodiversity, particularly ground-dwelling insect populations. This study aimed to assess the effects of Eucalyptus invasions on the abundance, composition, and diversity of ground-dwelling insects. Insect data were collected at two locations, Ngoma and Isize, featuring Eucalyptus plantations and adjacent native vegetation during December 2023 April 2024. Habitat factors such as woody density and woody cover that influence insect distribution and abundance were measured in Eucalyptus and Native plots. The results revealed a significant difference in woody density (t = 8.8321, p = 0.003059), and no significant difference in woody cover (W = 10, p = 0.125) between Eucalyptus and Native plots.

Data on Abundance of ground dwelling insects were collected using pitfall trapping which were set out over an area of 20 m x 20 m for both eucalyptus and native plots. A total of 23 insect species were captured during the study, 459 individual insects were captured in eucalyptus plots and 709 were captured in native plots. The study revealed a significant difference in insect abundance between Eucalyptus and Native plots (χ² = 6.6396, df = 1, p = 0.009974), and a significant difference between species diversity (F (1, 3) = 24.06, p = 0.0162). Permutational Multivariate Analysis of Variance (PERMANOVA) revealed no significant difference in species composition between eucalyptus and native (F = 1.08, p = 0.307). These findings highlight that Eucalyptus invasions reduce insect abundance and diversity. The results suggest a need for targeted management to mitigate the ecological impacts of Eucalyptus on insect populations and habitat structure in the Zambezi region.

ABSTRACT. Fire is a natural disturbance shaping shrub vegetation in fire-prone ecosystems. This study examines the effects of seasonal fire on shrub diversity, composition, and structure at the Makambu Experimental Fire Station. Data were collected from five treatments, including four burned in different seasons (A, B, C, D) during 2021 and an unburned control (E). Shrub species richness and the Shannon diversity index were used to access shrub communities two years post- fire. Treatment A (early spring burn) had the highest species richness (17 species), while treatment C (later burn) exhibited the lowest (11 species). The diversity indices followed a similar pattern, with Treatment A having the highest Shannon diversity (H = 2.17) and the control the lowest (H = 1.63). Baikiaea plurijuga was more abundant in late burns (Treatment B), while Ximenia cufra cufra and Burkea africana dominated in early spring burns (Treatment A). Statistical analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test showed significant differences in shrub height between burned and unburned treatments (p < 0.001). Dunn’s post hoc test revealed all burned treatments (A, B, C, D) had significantly shorter shrub height compared to the control, with no significant differences among burned treatments. Canopy cover was relatively uniform, averaging between 0.92 and 1.12 meters in burned treatments and 0.95 meters in the control, with no significant effects of fire timing on canopy cover (p = 0.067). Canopy cover was measured by recording the maximum canopy diameter in two perpendicular directions (length and width) using a 10-meter tape for shrubs. Seasonal fire had a noticeable impacts on species composition and structure. Early spring burns (Treatment A) promoted higher species richness and a more balanced distribution, while late-season burn (Treatment C) resulted in lower diversity and shrub height. Canopy cover recovered uniformly two years post- fire.

ABSTRACT. Understanding the diet of carnivores is crucial to assess species adaptability in a rapidly changing environment, though their elusive nature makes this challenging. Scat DNA metabarcoding is increasingly used to study the feeding ecology of elusive wildlife species, offering significantly higher resolution and detection of prey items compared to traditional methods. This study aimed to assess the diet composition of the recently rediscovered African wild dog population of Bicuar National Park. The objectives included determining prey composition and identifying the most consumed species, analyzing dietary differences across habitats and comparing diet composition using two DNA metabarcoding quantification methods: Relative Read Abundance (RRA) and frequency of Occurrence (FOO). DNA metabarcoding was performed on 49 scat samples from African wild dogs collected in the park. Nucleotide BLAST successfully identified 158 out of 159 sequences, revealing 19 different prey species with most assigned at the species level. The fact that almost all sequences (99.4%) were successfully identified indicates a high level of reliability in the DNA metabarcoding method. Among the identified species, those with the highest abundance, such as common duiker and bay duiker, likely represent the most frequently consumed prey by the wild dogs.We found that African wild dogs consumed more prey species in shrubland compared to grassland and tree cover. we suggest continued protection of all prey species in the protected areas to prevent human wildlife conflict.

ABSTRACT. This study aims to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of trophy-hunted African leopards (Panthera pardus) in Namibia, a species classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Leopards are widely distributed across Namibia, especially in northern and central regions. While they inhabit commercial livestock and game farms, their genetic diversity remains unexplored in the country. Current hunting regulations allow a quota of 250 males annually, typically targeting older males, which may disrupt population dynamics and genetic diversity. Using genetic analyses, including mitochondrial DNA and microsatellite markers, this research will explore the morphometrics and genetic characteristics of 130 samples collected from various regions. The results will shed light on the population structure, informing whether the Namibian leopards function as a single or multiple subpopulations. These findings will also aid in tailoring conservation strategies and adjusting hunting quotas, thereby helping to maintain genetic diversity and sustainable population levels. Ultimately, the study will provide baseline genetic data to support long-term monitoring efforts in line with global biodiversity goals.

ABSTRACT. Knowing the diet of African clawless otters in a shared landscape helps in conservation efforts by ensuring that both the species and its habitats are protected.African clawless otters are listed by IUCN as near threatened species, yet there is gap in knowledge in their diet which hinders effective conservation strategies and sustainable coexistence. This study assessed the diet and human-otter interactions on three river systems in Zambezi region: Kwando, Chobe and Zambezi river. The study was conducted from April 2024- September 2024. A total of 31 spraints of African clawless otters’ samples were collected along the shores of the three river systems (30 spraints - Kwando; 1 -Chobe and 0 - Zambezi) on different occasions to determine the diet of the species in the study area. Data on human otter interactions was gathered through questionnaires administered to fishermen who were found fishing on days of surveys at the study sites. Results showed that African clawless otters in the study area all feed on fish, crabs, mammals, amphibians, birds and plant matters. These findings highlight the diverse diet of African clawless otters and underscore the importance of their role in the ecosystem as both predators and scavengers. Furthermore, presence of fish in the species diet provide insights of overlap with local fisheries. In addition, the study’s survey indicated that all respondents know and are aware of the presence of the species in their area. The majority of fishermen (62.7%) feel positively about the presence of the species in their area, while 37.5% expressed negative feelings toward the presence of the species in their area. This finding of a significant percentage of fishermen having positive feelings about the presence of the species in the area indicates a strong foundation for developing community-based conservation initiatives aiming to promote coexistence between fishermen and otters.

ABSTRACT. The invasion of Eucalyptus spp. in the Zambezi region, Namibia, may impact local biodiversity, particularly ground-dwelling insect populations and diversity. This study compared the abundance, composition, and diversity of ground-dwelling insects between Eucalyptus invaded vegetation and mixed woodland native vegetation. Insect data were collected at two locations, Ngoma and Isize, featuring Eucalyptus plantations and adjacent native vegetation during December 2023 and April 2024. Habitat factors such as woody density and woody cover that influence insect distribution and abundance were measured in Eucalyptus and Native plots. The results revealed that woody density for Eucalyptus invaded plots was significantly higher than that of native plots (t = 8.8321, p = 0.003059), and no significant difference in woody cover (W = 10, p = 0.125). Data on abundance of ground dwelling insects were collected using pitfall trappings which were set out over an area of 20 m x 20 m in both vegetation types. A total of 23 insect species were captured during the study, native plots had higher species richness, with 8 to 18 species, while Eucalyptus invaded plots had lower richness, ranging from 4 to 11 species, 459 individual insects were captured in eucalyptus plots and 709 were captured in native plots. The study revealed a significant difference in insect abundance between the two vegetation types (χ² = 6.6396, df = 1, p = 0.009974), and a significant difference between species diversity (F (1, 3) = 24.06, p = 0.0162). Results revealed no significant difference in species composition between eucalyptus invaded and native plots (F = 1.08, p = 0.307). These findings suggest that Eucalyptus invaded vegetation had a reduced insect abundance and diversity compared to native vegetation.

ABSTRACT. Human-wildlife conflict, particularly livestock depredation by large carnivores, is a significant challenge that affects pastoralist communities worldwide. Large carnivores depredation on livestock jeopardise the income of pastoralists and threaten conservation efforts as farmers begin to loath wild predators and kill them in retaliation. In light of this, the central aim of this study was to ascertain the key factors driving the attacks of leopards (Panthera pardus), lions (Panthera leo), and spotted hyenas (Crocuta crocuta) on cattle (Bos taurus) and goats (Capra hircus) in six communal conservancies in the Mudumu Landscape in northeastern Namibia. The data used here were obtained from long-term ecological monitoring records captured by local conservancies and GIS and remote sensing databases such as OpenStreetMap, Google Earth, Landsat 8, and ClimateSERV. The data were spatially indexed in QGIS using a 4 km² grid, and generalised additive models (GAMs) were employed to assess the impact of predictor variables on the predation of livestock by carnivores. The results revealed that the presence of lions and spotted hyenas in the region substantially increased the incidence of livestock depredation. Furthermore, specific ranges of distance from park boundaries, roads, and rivers, as well as particular NDVI ranges, which were notably linked to livestock predation, were closely associated with human settlements and rangelands. Additionally, water availability, particularly its scarcity, was found to elevate the risk of livestock being preyed upon. These outcomes suggest that predation of livestock by wild carnivores on the edge is primarily influenced by factors connected to human-altered landscapes, which offer an abundance of domesticated animals, as well as water availability. These results contribute to the understanding of the conditions under which livestock predation occurs, aiding the development of effective management strategies.

ABSTRACT. The aim of this study was to describe the goat production systems utilized by smallholder farmers in the Kavango West region of Namibia. A multistage probability sampling technique was employed to select the study sample. A total of 96 farmers were surveyed through household interviews, and the data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that the majority of farmers were male (52.1%), while 47.9% were female. Goats played a crucial role in household livelihoods, contributing in various ways such as trading (87.5%), meat consumption (21.4%), manure production (20.4%), cultural functions (20.1%), and providing insurance against poverty (19.3%). The predominant production system across all villages—Mutjokotjo (95%), Ntara (87.9%), Nzinze (92.6%), and Rupara (81.3%)—was extensive farming, with only limited adoption of semi-intensive and intensive methods. This indicates a strong preference for extensive farming in the region. The study concluded that goat production is a vital component of farming activities in the study areas, fulfilling multiple roles for smallholder farmers. However, milk consumption was not identified as a significant driver for goat rearing. Additionally, the reasons for keeping goats were found to be independent of socio-demographic factors such as gender and education level. Goat production in the region is characterized by low-input, subsistence-based systems, with natural supplements like salt blocks and crop residues being used. Based on these findings, the study recommends that veterinarians and Animal Health Technicians (AHTs) regularly visit farmers in communal areas to provide training on key aspects of goat management, including breeding, feed supplementation, and disease prevention. Furthermore, the study suggests that farmers castrate non-breeding bucks and fatten them prior to sale in order to increase their income.

ABSTRACT. This study provides a detailed examination of chicken farming practices, disease management, and the motivations for chicken keeping among 118 respondents in the Ohangwena region, Namibia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a combination of online and face-to-face questionnaires across various constituencies in the region. The findings show that 59.3% of respondents prioritize housing for their chickens, while 96% rely primarily on Mahangu grains for poultry feed. Notably, 82.2% of respondents do not vaccinate their chickens, indicating a significant gap in poultry health management. Access to veterinary services varies, with 46.61% of respondents reporting that they have never visited state veterinary offices. Over half (52.54%) of the respondents have experienced chicken diseases, with the most common issues related to "general health and behaviours" (25.86%) and "skin and lesions" (19%). Traditional herbal remedies are widely used, with 72.9% of respondents preferring them as the primary treatment method. This survey highlights critical aspects of poultry farming in the Ohangwena region, providing valuable insights for improving poultry health management and supporting local farmers. The study recommends implementing training programs to educate farmers on modern poultry farming practices, disease prevention, and management. It also suggests collaboration with local veterinary extension services to improve access to these services, particularly in remote areas.

ABSTRACT. The application of spatially explicit information to understand the dynamics of human–wildlife-conflict (HWC) is increasingly becoming imperative to guide conservation planning and device mechanisms to enhance and sustain coexistence between wildlife and humans. Species Distribution Models are widely used to predict probability of presence of species and is becoming an indispensable tool to visualize potential risk-zones for HWC. In this study, we used the maximum entropy species distribution model to predict seasonal suitable habitat for African savanna elephant Loxodonta africana, the potential distribution of conflict risk-zones and to determine climatic, ecological and environmental variables that significantly explain the spatial distribution of crop raiding incidences within the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA-TFCA). In wet season, the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), temperature and seasonal precipitation were found to positively and significantly impact elephant distribution and human density, landcover and distance to rivers negatively. In dry season, NDVI, seasonal precipitation, landcover and distance to rivers positively influenced elephant presence and human density negatively. Croplands within highly suitable habitat ranges of elephants, or in close proximity of protected areas and rivers were found to be at increased risk to be raided. Climatic variables indicated increased risk probabilities of crop raiding with less precipitation and higher temperatures. Altogether, findings reiterate the multiplier effect of climate change impacts on exposed community livelihoods. Using this new spatial and environmental knowledge we encourage that its use to develop and implement targeted, effective mitigation strategies to high-risk zones, to minimize crop raiding conflicts within the KAZA-TFCA.

ABSTRACT. Changes in precipitation patterns affect tree populations by altering their functional traits, yet functional diversity is often underestimated in ecological studies, particularly in Namibia. This study analysed changes in plant species diversity and functional traits along an increasing rainfall gradient in northern Namibia, using systematic sampling at 13 points along a 1200 km transect. Plant species diversity fluctuated with no apparent significant effect that could be attributed to average annual rainfall, yet species diversity was highest at sites with high rainfall. While there was no apparent statistical difference in species diversity among sites, beta diversity was high. Species diversity was determined by using the Simpson’s diversity index. Functional traits varied along the gradient, with functional richness significantly affected by annual average rainfall. The results of my study support the conclusion that plant species diversity and plant functional diversity are both vital components of ecosystem functioning, and that future research should incorporate a wider array of functional traits and employ more comprehensive data collection methods that can build on our findings to further elucidate the complex interactions between tree populations, functional traits and precipitation patterns.

ABSTRACT. Heavy metals are key indicators of contamination in aquatic ecosystems. This study assessed the preliminary contamination of heavy metals in the sediment of Lake Liambezi, Namibia. Forty composite sediment samples were randomly collected using the scooping method from four locations (A to D), spaced 2.5 km apart. Sampling took place every Saturday in August 2021. The sediment samples were dried at 100°C, pulverized, and sieved using a 0.5 mm mesh. They were then digested according to EPA Method 3050B and analyzed using ICP-OES (Perkin Elmer Optima 7000 DV) for heavy metals. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, and site contamination was assessed using contamination factor, enrichment factor (EF), geo-accumulation index, ecological risk factor, and potential ecological risk indexes.The mean concentrations of heavy metals ranged from 0.34 mg/kg for Co to 1026.40 mg/kg for Fe. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated a statistically significant difference between heavy metal levels (p < 0.05). All detected metals—Cr, As, Co, Ni, V, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn—showed very high enrichment (EF > 40). Although the concentrations of these metals were below the EPA’s regulatory guidelines, the high enrichment factors indicate potential environmental risks. The results suggest that, while there is no immediate threat, heavy metals can accumulate over time, posing potential long-term ecological and health risks. Therefore, regular monitoring of sediment metal levels is recommended to prevent unintended exposures and protect the ecosystem from possible toxic buildup.

ABSTRACT. Abstract Density and abundance estimates are critical to effective wildlife management and are essential for monitoring population trends and setting effective quotas for harvesting. Management of roan (Hippotragus equinus) and sable (H. niger) antelopes in Mudumu National Park (MNP), Namibia, is challenging because they are elusive, naturally unmarked, and believed to occur at low densities. The species are threatened by habitat fragmentation, human population growth, and illegal hunting, and reliable density and abundance estimates have not been quantified, hampering management and conservation plans. Our objective was to estimate roan and sable densities and abundances using the time in front of the camera model (TIFC) and the Poisson-binomial N-mixture model (PB), respectively. We also evaluated the effects of environmental and ecological variables on roan and sable abundance. We used data from two camera trap surveys conducted between March and September 2021 in the MNP. Results showed that the TIFC model provided low-density estimates of 1.62 (95% CI 1.61–1.64) roans/km2 and 2.46 (95% CI 2.42–2.50) sables/km2, consistent with trends reported in Africa where these species occur at low densities. In addition, the total abundance of roans and sables in the MNP from the PB model were 57 and 242, respectively. Higher roan abundance occurred in sites with higher grass cover. This study provides the first accurate camera trap-derived density and abundance estimates for roan and sable in the MNP, which will be critical for developing comprehensive conservation programs and strategies that are likely to reduce the risk of extinction for both species.

ABSTRACT. Human-wildlife conflicts are among the environmental problems threatening wildlife conservation programs and community livelihoods worldwide. Despite the threats from human-wildlife conflicts, community-based wildlife conservation programs in Africa are largely based on Western approaches that disregard the contrasting socio-ecological characteristics of the communities affected by human-wildlife conflicts. This study employed qualitative research design to understand how the livestock farmers’ attitudes towards their relationship with wildlife managers influenced human-wildlife conflicts in Sheya shUushona Conservancy. It used in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to collect data, in addition to secondary data sources. Furthermore, the study used purposive sampling method to select the participants. Findings of the study reveal that the relationship between the livestock farmers and wildlife managers was characterized by distrust and negative attitudes. The study identified the following social-ecological drivers of distrust in the relationship between livestock farmers and wildlife managers: slow response to human-wildlife conflicts, dissatisfactions towards human-wildlife conflict compensation scheme, community’s feeling of exclusion from wildlife management, lack of benefits from wildlife and poor conditions of Etosha National Park fence. The study provides evidence that the management of social-ecological factors specific to a community is a prerequisite to mitigating human-wildlife conflict in the community. Although the study affirms the importance of social-ecological drivers, it suggests that emphasis should be placed on the context of the social-ecological drivers within the specific communities.

ABSTRACT. Wildlife is an integral part of biodiversity, and its conservation can sustain ecosystem processes and livelihoods. Its value is immense and varied, as it provides all four types of services: provisioning, supporting, regulating and cultural. Wildlife, therefore, is both “a means to an end” for humans as well as being “an end in itself”. However, its coexistence with man is increasingly challenged by the growing competition for land and resources, resulting in intense human-wildlife conflict and overshadowing of potential benefits that can sustain livelihoods and key ecosystem processes. Land and resources are finite but can be better utilised if the socio-ecological requirements of wildlife and people are understood and facilitated to promote sustainable coexistence. This talk focuses on strategies that can be used to promote sustainable human-wildlife coexistence “with benefits”. The strategies are informed by principles in (i) landscape ecology which include maintenance of functional and connected landscapes, (ii) intermediate disturbance, (iii) carrying capacity and limits of acceptable change, and (iv) sustainable livelihoods. The latter principle is particularly important in demonstrating the potential of hunting and photographic tourism as a tool to generating benefits and supporting human-wildlife coexistence, especially for local communities living in and around protected areas. Two case studies are presented. The first case study focusses on (i) Botswana’s semi-arid landscape and juxtaposition of wetlands and drylands as critical seasonal habitats for wildlife, and the second case study focusses on (ii) High congestion of wildlife and tourists along the Chobe River Front. Together, these two case studies illustrate the importance of appreciating species value, functional landscapes and sustainable livelihoods as key to enhancing tolerance and coexistence between wildlife and people.