Killing water birds in Namibia is now illegal. This was announced by the Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism.
This new development came as a result of heavy killings of waterbirds in the north of Namibia. Vulnerable residents in the area kill water birds like blue cranes, greater flamingos, ducks, grey herons, and storks to make ends meet and feed.
As announced by the Environment deputy director for Parks and Wildlife Management for North Namibia, the specie is now protected under the Nature Conservation Ordinance of 1975.
Rehabbeam Erckie made known that defaulters would be made to pay fine. It is also now unlawful to disturb them from their habitats.
Going further, he talked about the economical importance of these birds. They are an important part of the food chain and also important for pest control.
At the beginning of the year (2020), 170 persons have been fined for disturbing and killing water birds to about N$3 000.
He stated their staff is enforcing and making sure the law is kept especially around oshanas and ponds. In the same breath, the general public starting from Ondangwa Town Council is being sensitized about the importance of water birds and the need for them to be kept.
Thousands of cattle egrets at the beginning of the year gathered for breeding at eucalyptus trees at Ondangwa Camp. He disclosed he discussed with the council to allow for them to breed in the said area.
80 per cent of the general populace frowned at this new development of the protection of water birds.
As gathered, an Okamule village resident disclosed their birds are mannans and should be eaten.
