Namibia warns against violations of national park rules

WINDHOEK, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism on Wednesday raised concerns over ongoing violations of national park rules, urging visitors and tour operators to comply with regulations to protect conservation areas.

"We have noted major transgressions concerning various issues as per the applicable laws and park rules. The ministry wishes to clarify some issues that may be overlooked or misunderstood by those visiting our national parks," Romeo Muyunda, spokesperson for the ministry, said in a statement.

The ministry highlighted the unauthorized use of drones as a key issue, adding that using the device is not allowed in Namibia's national parks without an official permit, while visitors arriving with drones must declare and register them at the park's entry gates.

Muyunda reiterated that single-use plastic bags are banned in all national parks. "The restriction is for single-use carry bags from retail shops. Plastics used in packaging items, such as bread or rice bags, are permitted," Muyunda noted, urging visitors to dispose of waste in designated refuse bins.

Off-road driving and leaving vehicles in unauthorized areas were also flagged as ongoing issues due to vandalism of park infrastructure, including roads and ablution facilities.

Namibia is known for its strong conservation policies, with more than 40 percent of its land designated for wildlife protection through national parks, conservancies, and reserves.

The country has received international recognition for its community-based conservation efforts, which have helped restore wildlife populations and promote ecotourism as a key sector of its economy. ■