Angus Middleton, Director of the Namibia Nature Foundation, shares insights from the Diaz Peninsula, where desert meets ocean in a biodiversity hotspot. He explains the threats facing this fragile ecosystem, from underappreciation to looming port and hydrogen developments, and highlights how the NIMPA+ project is strengthening protection of Africa’s second-largest marine protected area. With less than 2% of Namibia’s ocean currently safeguarded, the project aims to build momentum towards 10% and beyond, contributing to the global 30×30 biodiversity targets. Angus reflects on international partnerships, the creation of NAMCOB for seabird conservation, and the vital role of collaboration across borders in securing the long-term health of the Benguela upwelling system, one of the richest marine ecosystems on Earth.

This interview captures a pivotal moment in Namibia’s marine conservation journey.