Africa-Press – Namibia. The Minister of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, Pohamba Shifeta, has urged the public to renew their commitment to the crucial mission of protecting and preserving biodiversity.
The minister made this appeal during his speech commemorating International Biological Diversity Day, observed annually on 22 May to recognise the vital role biodiversity plays in sustaining ecosystems, providing food and medicine, and contributing to overall well-being. This year, Namibia commemorated the day in Lüderitz, //Kharas Region, under the theme “Be part of the Plan.”
Shifeta explained that the theme is a call to action for all stakeholders to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by supporting the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, also known as the Biodiversity Plan.
“Namibia is committed to the full implementation of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and its associated protocols,” he added.
He also revealed that his ministry has initiated stakeholder consultations to review the achievements, challenges, gaps, and bottlenecks in implementing the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.
The minister emphasised that biodiversity is under unprecedented threat from human activities such as deforestation, habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and the unsustainable exploitation of natural resources, placing immense pressure on ecosystems worldwide. The consequences of biodiversity loss, he pointed out, are extensive, impacting food security, human health, economic stability, and cultural heritage.
“The Ministry recognises that the only way to reduce the decline in biodiversity is to transform people’s roles, responsibilities, actions, and their relationship to nature and biodiversity. Human activities produce greenhouse gas emissions, with around half remaining in the atmosphere and the rest absorbed by land and ocean ecosystems globally,” Shifeta said.
He therefore urged communities to work together to address the root causes of biodiversity loss and chart a course towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
“As we go about our daily lives, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting and conserving biodiversity. Each species, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of nature. Let us embrace the principles of sustainability, stewardship, and respect for all living beings as we strive to build a more harmonious relationship with the natural world,” Shifeta added.
For More News And Analysis About Namibia Follow Africa-Press
