The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism in Namibia has clarified that it has not closed game drive roads in the Bwabwata Game Park near Divundu in the Kavango East region. According to ministry spokesperson Vilho Angula, the ministry only closed off illegal routes, while all approved and existing roads remain open. This statement comes in response to complaints from tour guides working in the park.
A group of concerned tour guides, represented by Theo Kakororo, had written to the deputy environment minister, Anslem Murungu, alleging unfair treatment in the park. They claimed that the closure of certain roads along the Kavango River views has effectively shut down the park for tourism. The guides argued that 90% of game viewing at Bwabwata occurs along the Kavango River front, where animals such as buffalo, elephant, sable, and lions can be spotted.
The deputy minister has denied receiving the guides' letter, although he acknowledged being informed about the issue. Kakororo stated that tourists visit Bwabwata to see specific species of birds and swamp antelopes, which cannot be seen from the roads the ministry wants them to use. He added that some of the closed tracks have been in use for over 25 years, dating back to the apartheid era.
Angula explained that tour guides have been creating their own roads in the park when they spot animals, often driving 4×4 vehicles. He stated that some of these tracks are in river beds and had to be closed due to the ministry's road map for the park. According to Angula, the ministry has a plan in place to manage the park's roads and protect its environment.
Kakororo also raised concerns about guides and tourists being fined for stopping to take pictures in the park, despite paying entry fees. He cited cases of guides being fined, including Diasy Thindhimba, who was fined N$1 200 on 16 September for stopping on the side of the road to allow tourists to take photographs. Another guide, Muterenge Djani, claimed to have been fined for driving off-road.
Angula emphasized that all individuals, including guides found off-road, are subject to fines as provided by the law. He noted that regulations in all national parks aim to protect the environment from damage caused by 4×4 vehicles. According to Angula, the Bwabwata community has been advised to write to the environment minister requesting new roads, and the necessary processes will be undertaken to establish them.
The controversy surrounding the closure of game drive routes in Bwabwata Game Park highlights the challenges of balancing tourism and conservation. While the ministry seeks to protect the park's environment, tour guides argue that the closures hinder their ability to provide a quality experience for tourists. The issue remains a topic of discussion between the ministry, tour guides, and local communities.
Key points
- The Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism closed only illegal game drive routes in Bwabwata Game Park, not approved roads.
