Ministry concerned over disregard for national park rules

The Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism has raised concerns over the continued violations of park rules and regulations by visitors to Namibia’s national parks. According to ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda, officials have observed major transgressions involving various regulations, prompting the need for stricter enforcement.Muyunda specifically called out tour operators, some of whom have been complicit in these violations by failing to ensure their clients adhere to the park’s regulations. He urged operators to assist the ministry in maintaining law and order, emphasizing that a collective effort is needed to create a positive and responsible tourism experience. Those who continue to disregard the rules may face blacklisting from conducting business in Namibia’s national parks.One of the primary concerns is the unauthorized use of drones in national parks. Muyunda stressed that drones are not allowed without an official permit, and visitors carrying drones must declare and register them at park entry gates. However, despite this restriction, officials have observed a significant number of visitors attempting to fly drones within the parks, violating regulations.Another critical issue involves the handling and transportation of raw meat in and out of Etosha National Park under the Animal Disease and Parasite Act 13 of 1956. Visitors are prohibited from exiting the park with raw meat at the Anderson, Galton, and Von Lindequist gates. Any raw meat found will be confiscated and discarded by veterinary officials at these exits. However, Muyunda clarified that there are no restrictions on entering the park with raw meat, nor is there a restriction on exiting with meat at the King Nehale Gate.Additionally, the ministry has reinforced its plastic bag ban in all national parks. This restriction applies specifically to single-use plastic carry bags from retail stores. However, plastics used for packaging food items, such as bread or rice, remain permitted. Visitors are strongly encouraged to avoid littering and to dispose of their waste in designated refuse bins to help maintain the parks’ cleanliness and ecological balance.Off-road driving and vandalismMuyunda also highlighted off-road driving and unauthorized vehicle exits in non-designated areas as a persistent issue. Such actions cause environmental degradation and harm Namibia’s reputation as a country with well-managed conservation areas. He urged visitors to strictly adhere to designated roads and viewing areas to ensure environmental protection and personal safety.Furthermore, the ministry has invested significantly in improving park infrastructure, including roads and ablution facilities. However, Muyunda lamented that these facilities are often vandalized or misused, making maintenance efforts challenging. Despite the ministry’s continuous efforts to keep public restrooms clean and operational, many are found in poor condition, indicating a lack of responsible use by visitors.Call for complianceMuyunda reiterated the ministry’s appeal to all visitors to follow park rules to help preserve Namibia’s national parks for future generations. He emphasized that compliance with these regulations ensures the parks remain safe, clean, and ecologically sustainable for both local and international visitors.“The ministry encourages everyone to respect the rules and contribute to keeping our parks pristine. A collective effort is essential to ensure that Namibia’s national parks remain a source of pride and conservation excellence,” he concluded.

Ministry concerned over disregard for national park rules

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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Ministry concerned over disregard for national park rules

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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