NIMPA Training Inspires New Momentum for Marine Protection

Rob Barnes | August 20th, 2025 | News

Windhoek, Namibia – Over two dynamic days, government agencies, scientists, civil society organisations, and community leaders came together to strengthen the future of the Namibian Islands Marine Protected Area (NIMPA) and explore opportunities for its expansion.

The training, part of the NIMPA Plus Project, blended expert presentations with hands-on learning, showing how technology, science, and local knowledge can work hand in hand to protect Namibia’s rich marine biodiversity while supporting sustainable livelihoods.

Day 1: Science, strategy, and shared purpose

Day 1 opened with a powerful message from Angus Middleton of the Namibia Nature Foundation, urging Namibia to embrace its identity as a marine nation alongside its achievements in land-based conservation.

Judith Brown of the Blue Marine Foundation presented global evidence that well-designed and well-managed marine protected areas deliver measurable benefits for biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal resilience.

Sessions traced the evolution of NIMPA and its Ecologically or Biologically Significant Areas (EPSAs), shared lessons from Angola and South Africa, and discussed the updated NIMPA Operational Management Plan.

Gabrielle Thomas (Namibia Nature Foundation) and Nicki du Plessis (Blue Marine Foundation) explored how innovative financing, from blue bonds to biodiversity credits, can turn conservation plans into long-term, sustainable action.

Day 2: From strategy to action

Day 2 focused on practical tools and real-world examples.

Scott Leadbetter delivered an in-depth GIS training, demonstrating how spatial data can be used to map habitats, track fishing activity, plan enforcement, and improve stakeholder communication.

Katta Ludynia and Joachim Naulaerts of the Namibia Nature Foundation led a research and monitoring case study, identifying priority actions such as mapping kelp forests, monitoring pollution, and tracking nursery areas for key species.

Rob Barnes of GRID-Arendal introduced artificial intelligence for conservation in a fun and interactive session, with participants speaking directly to ChatGPT in voice mode to explore how AI could support marine monitoring and management.

Civil society and community leadership

Ukarapo Mungunda from the Namibian Foundation for the Conservation of Seabirds (NAMCOB) showcased how civil society plays a critical role in NIMPA management, from seabird monitoring and rehabilitation to education and outreach.

Clemens Naomab (Namibia Nature Foundation) shared community engagement initiatives, including training fishers to use SMART tools, forming fishing associations, and piloting alternative livelihoods.

Community representatives, including members of HIFA, BIFAH, and NAMF Fishnet, called for greater recognition of small-scale fishers, improved communication in multiple languages, and new opportunities such as licensed seaweed harvesting. These groups were encouraged to lead local discussions and represent diverse voices in marine decision-making.

A shared commitment to the future

Across both days, one theme emerged clearly: effective marine protection requires collaboration. By combining government leadership, NGO expertise, community participation, and modern technology, Namibia can strengthen NIMPA and set an example for marine conservation in the region.

From seabird recovery efforts to small-scale fisheries policy, participants left the training with a shared sense of urgency and optimism. Namibia already has the tools, the knowledge, and the partnerships needed to turn ambition into lasting marine protection.

Call to Action

Follow NIMPA Plus for updates, resources, and opportunities to get involved in safeguarding Namibia’s marine heritage. Together, we can protect our oceans for generations to come.

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NIMPA Training Inspires New Momentum for Marine Protection