Department of Environmental Sciences

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14C dating of organic residue and carbonate from stromatolites in Etosha Pan, Namibia: 14C reservoir effect, correction of published ages, and evidence of >8-m-deep lake during the late pleistocene
(2013) Hipondoka, Martin; Brook, George A.; Railsback, Bruce L.; Marais, Eugene
Lacustrine stromatolites are layered accretionary structures formed in shallow water by cyanobacteria. They are a precise indicator of high lake limits and their morphology and structure provide an insight into paleoenvironments of the time. Previous research on lacustrine stromatolites from Etosha Pan in Namibia based on radiocarbon ages of carbonates were close to the limit of the method and did not account for any possible 14C reservoir effect. The ages were used to suggest that the basin was not extensively flooded during the last 40,000 yr. To assess the reservoir effect, the age characteristics of a stromatolite from Poacher’s Point were investigated by 14C dating both carbonate and organic residue from samples at different depths in the deposit. The ~15-cm-diameter stromatolite was separated into 12 zones from the center to the edge and block samples were cut from each zone; the carbonate and residual organic residue were dated separately. The carbonate ages ranged from 34,700 to 24,700 14C yr BP and the organic ages from 15,700 to 2500 14C yr BP. Ages generally increased with increasing distance from the surface of the deposit. We believe that the organic ages are an accurate estimate of the stromatolite’s age, while the much older carbonate ages reflect incorporation of old carbon from limestone bedrock and ancient calcrete introduced by stream and spring flow. Excluding the 2 oldest organic ages (15,700 and 13,600 14C yr BP), which may reflect contamination by older organic material washed into the lake during flooding, a linear regression relationship between carbonate and organic ages indicates that the reservoir effect on carbonate ranges up to ~24,000 14C yr BP but decreases slightly as the true age of the deposit increases. This regression relationship was used to correct 2 finite carbonate ages for stromatolites from Pelican Island obtained in the early 1980s, which together with our new organic age for a stromatolite from Andoni Bay, document a >8-m-deep lake in Etosha Pan during the Late Pleistocene, at and prior to ~34,000–26,000 cal yr BP. The organic carbon ages from the Poacher’s Point stromatolite suggest prolonged lacustrine conditions during the early to middle Holocene (8000–6600 cal yr BP) but not to the extent seen during the Late Pleistocene
A comparative study on the fish species composition, diversity and catch rates among the fisheries reserves on the Zambezi and Kwando rivers, Zambezi region
(University of Namibia, 2025) Namitaa, Tukelo Lavinia; Mfune, John K. E.
The Zambezi and Kwando Rivers in northeastern Namibia support vital floodplain fisheries that provide food, income, and seasonal employment for many local communities. However, increasing pressure from overfishing, habitat degradation, and climate change has highlighted the need to establish fisheries reserves to promote sustainable resource use. This baseline study evaluated fish assemblages, specifically species composition, diversity, and catch per unit effort (CPUE); across five fisheries reserves located along the Zambezi River (Sitwela, Kabweza, and Makangala) and the Kwando River (Luhingi and Qhuqhumupa). Gillnet surveys using both experimental and monofilament gillnets were conducted between 13 November and 13 December 2021. A total of 3,360 individual fish, representing 32 species, were captured. On the Zambezi River, Makangala had the highest species richness with 24 species, followed by Sitwela with 21 species, and Kabweza with 20. On the Kwando River, Luhingi recorded 17 species, while Qhuqhumupa had 12. There was no statistically significant difference in species diversity among the reserves (H(4)=8.268, p=0.082). However, overall CPUE (by weight) varied significantly between sites (H(4)=46.621, p<0.001), with Luhingi showing the highest CPUE (0.704±0.78 kg/set) and Kabweza the lowest (0.209±0.14 kg/set). Significant differences in individual CPUE were observed for two commercially important species: Clarias gariepinus(H(4)=26.783, p<0.001) and Clarias ngamensis (H(4)=17.967, p=0.001), while no significant variation was found for Serranochromis macrocephalus (H(3)=0.260, p=0.967). Similarly, mean fish sizes for C. gariepinus (H(4)= 25.850, p<0.001) and C. ngamensis (H(4)=14.660, p=0.005) differed significantly across sites, whereas no difference was noted for S. macrocephalus (H(3)=0.779, p=0.885). Regression analysis showed that temperature had no effect on fish catch rates. However, reserve size explained 14% of the variation in catch rates. These spatial differences in catch rates for key commercial species may be influenced by factors such as the degree of protection, age, and size of the reserves. In particular, higher CPUEs in the Kwando River reserves may be attributed to stronger protection measures and longstanding conservation awareness compared to the more recently established reserves along the Zambezi River. These findings underscore the need for tailored, site-specific management strategies to ensure the sustainability of fish populations across all five newly established fisheries reserves in the region
Analysis of the impact of demographic and economic factors on internet services satisfaction levels in Windhoek, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2018) Tubulingane, Booysen Sabeho
The study focused on analysing geospatial internet customer satisfaction levels, using the Geographic Information System (GIS) technology. The aim of the study was to investigate how demographic and economic factors influence satisfaction levels. The study followed a quantitative design and employed the systematic sampling method to select a sample of 248 potential internet users. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from selected samples. The statistical and spatial analyses were conducted in such a way that results were comparable between areas from low, to high income levels. Low income suburbs were represented by Greenwell Matongo Ext 1 (informal settlement) and Grysblock Ext 1 (formal settlement). Moreover, middle to high income areas were represented by Pioneers Park Ext 1 (formal settlement). The study findings revealed that internet users in low income areas especially in the informal settlement experienced high level of dissatisfaction with internet services compared to the middle to high income area. Moreover, males in the middle to high income area made up the majority of internet users. Within the lower income areas, use of the internet was predominantly by users who were less than 30 years old whilst in the middle to high income area, people who were aged between 31 and 40 years used the internet more than people aged less than 30 years. The majority of internet users earned a gross monthly income of less than N$ 5000 (US$ 1 = N$ 11.6) and had a secondary school level education. Satisfaction levels noted differ noticeably across the various demographics. The lowest satisfaction scores were dominated by female internet users who completed grade 12. The highest satisfaction scores were mostly reported by male internet users who had a tertiary education at diploma or degree levels. The lowest satisfaction scores were dominated by internet users earning less than N$ 5000 and were residing in low income areas. The highest satisfaction scores were mostly articulated by internet users residing in the middle to high income area. There is need for Telecommunication Companies in Namibia to introduce more fixed post-paid internet services especially in low income areas of Windhoek and other areas of Namibia. Fixed post-paid internet services were discovered to be associated with higher internet satisfaction levels compared to mobile prepaid internet services. Additionally, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) need to consider introducing an application which assists users to monitor and report poor customer service
Assessing land degradation through a participatory approach in selected villages of the Kunene region, Namibia: Bridging scientific and local knowledge bases
(University of Namibia, 2025) Hasholo, Ndapanda; Imnan, Ndeinekela Emilia
While scientific methods for assessing land degradation are well established, they often overlook indigenous knowledge provided by local communities. This study utilized a participatory approach to assess land degradation in Otjamaungu and Otjimbundu villages in Kunene region, Namibia, which is among the regions considerably affected by land degradation. Communities identified sites that they perceived to represent five distinct degradation categories: very low, low, moderate, high, and very high. For each category, three sites were selected, and within each site, three plots measuring 20 m × 20 m were established. Vegetation assessments in each plot included measurements of species richness, species diversity, plant density, total basal area, regeneration capacity, and herbaceous cover. Soil assessment included compaction, soil erosion and fertility. Furthermore, local perceptions on land degradation was captured. Ecological results were compared with opinions and perceptions by the communities regarding degradation. The results indicated that community-defined degradation categories were strongly influenced by visible vegetation cover, with denser vegetation typically associated with lower degradation levels. Overall, scientific data largely aligned with community classifications. Quantitative data were analysed using R Studio, while qualitative data were analysed using thematic analysis. Significant differences in species richness, diversity, density, total basal area, herbaceous cover and regeneration capacity were observed between degradation categories in both villages (P<0.05). Interviews revealed that communities primarily perceived land degradation through its impact on livestock, central to their livelihoods, rather than through broader ecological consequences.. Perceptions of degradation varied within villages, with some individuals demonstrating limited understanding of its causes and manifestations . By combining scientific expertise with local knowledge, this study enhances the understanding of land degradation in the Kunene region, paving the way for more effective conservation and restoration efforts
Assessing the impact of wildlife on vegetation cover change, Northeast Namibia, based on MODIS satellite imagery (2002–2021)
(Sensors, 2022) Gbagir, Augustine-Moses Gaavwase; Sikopo, Colgar Sisamu; Matengu, Keneth K.
Human–wildlife conflict in the Zambezi region of northeast Namibia is well documented, but the impact of wildlife (e.g., elephants) on vegetation cover change has not been adequately addressed. Here, we assessed human–wildlife interaction and impact on vegetation cover change. We analyzed the 250 m MODIS and ERA5 0.25 0.25 drone and GPS-collar datasets. We used Time Series Segmented Residual Trends (TSS-RESTREND), Mann–Kendall Test Statistics, Sen’s Slope, ensemble, Kernel Density Estimation (KDE), and Pearson correlation methods. Our results revealed (i) widespread vegetation browning along elephant migration routes and within National Parks, (ii) Pearson correlation (p-value = 5.5 10􀀀8) showed that vegetation browning areas do not sustain high population densities of elephants. Currently, the Zambezi has about 12,008 elephants while these numbers were 1468, 7950, and 5242 in 1989, 1994, and 2005, respectively, (iii) settlements and artificial barriers have a negative impact on wildlife movement, driving vegetation browning, and (iv) vegetation greening was found mostly within communal areas where intensive farming and cattle grazing is a common practice. The findings of this study will serve as a reference for policy and decision makers. Future studies should consider integrating higher resolution multi-platform datasets for detailed micro analysis and mapping of vegetation cover change.
Assessing the potential of agritourism at Neudamm, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2023) !Gaeb, Manfred Donavon
The share of the agricultural Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Namibia is lower than that of the average Sub-Saharan Africa. Correspondingly, is the share of agricultural labour force, which has also, been declining since the country’s independence (Mushendami, Biwa and Gaomab 2008). The University of Namibia (UNAM) experienced this reality, primarily, through potential of income generating opportunity at Neudamm Campus. As a result of this precarious condition, and the declining of UNAM’s government subsidy, the university had to explore alternative income streams. One such alternative avenue is the agritourism opportunity at Neudamm. Very few studies have so far assessed agritourism factors of success in global north whilst global south lack such studies. This gap in literature in assessing agritourism factors of success in the global south necessitated this study. The research concluded firstly, that economic factors are not the only determining factors of successful agritourism but also social factors. Secondly, the findings established that Neudamm suffers from several shortcomings and therefore, potential viable agritourism cannot be achieved without addressing those shortcomings. Thirdly, critical success factors of agritourism were found to be natural bonding dynamics of various forms of capital. As a result, the study recommended nomination of Neudamm as a place of heritage importance due to its historical importance. Furthermore, policy directives such as Affirmative Action Loan Scheme (AALS) and National Agricultural Credit Program (NACP) need urgent review thirty two years after Namibia’s independence, to foster national reconciliation. Additionally, the implementation of agritourism concept at farm Neudamm is fervently advised by addressing shortcomings and adding tangible visionary stage for the TALC model during agritourism destination development process is proposed.
Assessing the use of periphyton as bioindicators of water quality, for use in Namibian inshore waters
(1997) Benson, Gregg;
Assessment of floodwater harvesting infrastructures in the Namibian Cuvelai-Etosha basin
(University of Namibia, 2020) Niipare, Emeritha
The Cuvelai-Etosha Basin lies in north-central Namibia and due to the prevailing climatic situation, the basin is dominated by strong seasonal and annual variations of either very dry conditions with drought or heavy flooding in certain years. A growing population in the Cuvelai-Etosha Basin has resulted in increased demand for water for daily use and agricultural activities. Floodwater Harvesting Infrastructures are considered to be a more effective way to solve those problems. Hence the current status of the initiatives taken to harvest floodwater for use in the dry seasons needs to be determined by means of remote sensing, secondary data and field validation. The main objective of the study was to assess the condition and performance of Floodwater Harvesting Infrastructures in the Cuvelai-Etosha Basin. The Ministry of Agriculture, Water and Forestry constructed 34 earth dams in this Basin from 2008 to 2011. Out of these newly constructed earth dams, 18 were randomly selected for the study. The research design was based on using both qualitative and quantitative data on a completely randomised basis. Sentinel data was used to identify the water bodies by means of remote sensing. Information was gathered by means of structured interviews from the locals or people acquainted with the sites. The results from the interviews taken among 96% of the participants showed that the highest usage of earth dams is livestock watering while few people use them for irrigation purposes. Due to sedimentation in the earth dams, depth has reduced and surficial area has increased; hence the dams can no longer retain the quality and quantity of water they were designed for. In conclusion, the method developed from GIS successfully identified 94% of the existing earth dams.
Assessment of rangeland condition and evaluation of the nutritional value of common grass and browse species at the Neudamm experimental farm, Namibia
(2012) Kapu, Nyaa-Lua; ;
An assessment of the trends in population abundance and spatial distribution of roan antelope (Hippotragus equinus) and sable antelope (Hippotragus niger) in the greater Waterberg plateau complex, North-central, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2022) Alfeus, Martha
Understanding factors affecting the demographic status and spatial distribution of large mammals is of major relevance in wildlife conservation and management. This is particularly the case for the roan (Hippotragus equinus) and the sable (Hippotragus niger) populations in the Waterberg Plateau Park (WPP) whose growth appears to have been suppressed since 1994, after being introduced in 1975 and 1980, respectively. The lack of scientific assessments on potential factors influencing their growth and spatial distribution has been a major challenge confronting their management in the WPP, which is the aim of this study. The study used the Generalized Additive Modelling and State Space Models to assess trends in the abundance of roan and sable between 1975 and 2019 in the WPP based on historical aerial count data. Additionally, occupancy modelling and detection probability was conducted to assess the influence of site and detection covariates on their spatial distribution in the Waterberg Plateau Farm based on the camera trapping data collected during the wet and dry seasons. The study estimated with uncertainty a negative population growth for roan (r = - 0.02 ± 0.06, CI95 = -0.13 – 0.09) and a zero-population growth for the sable (r = 0.00 ± 0.08, CI95 = -0.14 – 0.16). These growth trajectories tend to be positively influenced by annual rainfall, and the occasional auctioning, and the introduction of individuals. Contrary, it was insignificantly but negatively influenced by the low-lagged rainfall and the increase of the buffalo population. Occupancy modelling showed that roan distribution is significantly influenced by the co-occurrence of sable both during the wet and the dry seasons. Sable distribution was positively influenced by forage and the presence/absence of leopard during the wet season while positively influenced by the presence/absence of waterhole during the dry season. The cumulative effect of these variables is likely to have resulted in the reduction of the survival and reproduction rate as these antelopes are unable to escape the semi-closed isolated study areas. Future interventions involving the introduction of these species outside their native ranges should be careful thought, and must consider the potential impacts of climate change to improve the success of this management strategy.
A CFD study of wind patterns over a desert dune and the effect on seed dispersion
(Springer Netherlands, 2012) Joubert, Eugene C.; Harms, Thomas M.; Muller, Annethea A.; Hipondoka, Martin; Henschel, Joe R.
In the Namib Desert seed distribution is greatly influenced by wind patterns. Existing literature regarding wind patterns over dunes focuses on two-dimensional simulations of flow over simplified dune structures. The three-dimensional geometries of the sand dunes suggests far more complex flow features exist, which are not captured by two-dimensional simulations. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was used to reproduce the three-dimensional near surface wind patterns around a dune with the aim to learn more about seed distribution. Field work included terrain mapping, wind speed, direction and temperature metering. The CFD results show the expected two-dimensional flow features of high pressure at the dune toe, low pressure at the crest and flow acceleration up windward slope. Also observed are some three-dimensional flow features such as a spiral vortex near the crest and transverse flow due to crest-line curvature of the dune. It was also observed how the wall shear stress differs due to the three-dimensional shape of the dune. The wall shear stress suggests that seed accumulation is more likely to occur behind trailing (down-wind) crest edges. Particle tracking showed how seeds tend to move over the dune crest and recirculate towards the crest on the lee-side. The study showed that adding the third dimension makes the simulations more complex, adds to computational requirements and increases simulation time but also provides vital flow information which is not possible with two-dimensional simulations.
Changes in numbers of Lesser Kestrels Falco naumanni and Amur Falcons F. amurensis at a winter roost in Lesotho
(African Bird Club, 2012) Kopij, Grzegorz
Over the last 20 years drastic changes have been recorded in the composition of a flock of Lesser Kestrels Falco naumanni and Amur Falcons F. amurensis at a roost on the campus of the National University of Lesotho at Roma. Numbers of the latter have increased, while those of the former species have dramatically decreased. Changes in the number of Amur Falcons recorded in February – March suggest that their southward migration continues until early February and soon thereafter a departure north starts, with most birds vacating the roost in the first half of March. The earliest arrival of Lesser Kestrel was 26 October, the latest departure 9 April. The earliest arrival date of Amur Falcon was 19 December, the latest departure date 7 April. Early-morning departure from the roost lasted for up to 40 minutes, but most birds left during the first 5–10 minutes
The changing climate and human vulnerability in north-central Namibia
(2016) Angula, Margaret; Kaundjua, Maria B.
North-central Namibia is more vulnerable to effects of climate change and variability. Combined effects of environmental degradation, social vulnerability to poverty and a changing climate will compromise subsistence farming in north-central Namibia (NCN). This will make subsistence and small-scale farmers in the region more vulnerable to projected changes in the climate system. Thus, the aim of this article was to examine factors contributing to subsistence farmers’ vulnerability to impacts of climate change. The article further discusses different aspects of human vulnerability and existing adaptation strategies in response to impacts of climate related disasters experienced over the past three to four decades in NCN. Qualitative and quantitative research approaches and methodology were employed to obtain information from subsistence farmers in north-central Namibia. The sociodemographic characteristics of Ohangwena, Oshana and Omusati Region reveals high levels of unemployment, high adult and elderly population and high dependency on agricultural livelihood system. These indicators help understand levels of household vulnerability. The study concludes that households interviewed revealed low levels of adaptive capacity due to exposure to climate risks and combined effects of social, political and cultural factors. This article provided an understanding that is required to inform the adaptation pathways relevant for NCN.
Chronology of sand ridges and the Late Quaternary evolution of the Etosha Pan, Namibia
(2014) Hipondoka, Martin; Mauz, B.; Kempf, Jurgen; Packman, S.; Chiverrell, R.C.; Bloemendal, J.
Etosha Pan, situated at the southern border of tropical Africa, is a vast endorheic plain in Namibia's semi-arid north. The most recent studies agree that the pan was the floor of a former lake with varying water levels. Here we explored this idea further by investigating the link between lake-level change and records of late Pleistocene and Holocene climate change. The varying lake levels were inferred through sediment analysis and optical dating of sand deposits that form ridges parallel to the current shore along the northern and western margins of the pan. Our results support the view that the sand ridges are shoreline deposits of an evaporitic lake. The ridges result from the interplay between intermittent river discharge and riverine sediment supply from the north, prevailing north-easterly wind and shore-parallel waves. Therefore they are a proxy for former levels of a perennial lake. We infer higher levels during the late Pleistocene and a drastic drop shortly after 10 ka. Since around 8 ka Etosha Pan was covered by a shallow water body. This lake water-level reconstruction is not in line with the histories of ITCZ migration and strength of Benguela current upwelling. We confirm that the linkages between the evolution of the Etosha Pan and the climate mechanisms driving hydrological changes in subtropical southwest Africa are poorly resolved and need further investigation.
Community involvement in rock art site management in Namibia
(2003) Gwasira, Goodman
Community-based conservation and protected areas in Namibia
(2008) Hoole, Arthur
Comparing the effects of two types of Mulches on soil properties and the performance of selected woody species on a degraded land in Kunene region, Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Ndatipo, Simon K.; Nesongano, Wellencia
Land degradation in arid and semi-arid regions has put tremendous pressure on rangelands, reducing their ability to provide important ecosystem services and sufficient forage for livestock. Given the increasing pressures on rangelands, it is of utmost importance to find ways to restore degraded rangelands. Incorporating mulching treatments into ecological restoration plans could aid in establishing diverse and resilient plant communities and enhance the long-term success of restoration projects. The present study sought to determine the effects of two types of mulching materials (leaf litter and straw) on the soil's temperature, moisture content, and pH as well as the cumulative stem length, seedling survival, and leaf chlorophyll content of the selected species (Faidherbia albida, Catophractes alexandri, Vachellia erioloba, and Senegalia galpinii) during three watering periods (once-daily, twice-weekly and once-weekly). A 5 x 5 block grid was used with treatments (control, 5cm leaf litter, 10cm leaf litter, 5cm straw, and 10cm straw) assigned randomly and within each treatment the species were assigned randomly to holes. Mulching significantly reduced soil temperatures and retained soil moisture content but did not influence soil pH during the course of the study. Amongst the various treatment combinations tested, both 10 cm mulch depths (straw and leaf litter) appeared to be the most effective in terms of optimizing soil conditions, seedling growth, and survival for Senegalia galpinii, Catophractes alexandri, and Faidherbia albida. During the twice-weekly watering period, Vachellia erioloba seedlings grew much better in the control blocks than in the two 5 cm mulch depths (leaf litter and straw), but their seedling survival rate was unaffected by mulching throughout the study period, indicating that mulching had no positive effect. These findings could be attributed to the fact that Vachellia erioloba is a phreatophyte, which means that it can excess groundwater in water i stressed environments (possibly very early on) and that mulching has a lower impact on its survival and growth, making the shallow effect of mulching on it less noticeable. Mulching had no effect on the leaf chlorophyll content of Senegalia galpinii, Catophractes alexandri, or Faidherbia albida but significantly increased chlorophyll content of Vachellia erioloba at both straw mulching depths, suggesting a positive species-specific response in V. erioloba’s photosynthetic rate towards mulching with straw. This study concludes that using leaf litter or straw mulch at 10 cm depths can improve soil conditions for plant growth and help restore degraded regions, and that some of the plant responses to the different mulching treatment combination may be species specific
Comparing tree functional traits and species diversity along an increasing rainfall gradient in northern Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2025) Shikongo, Albertina M.N.; Fabiano, E.
Changes in precipitation patterns have the ability to affect the composition and the variety of species within a plant community by altering their functional traits. However, there has been a tendency to underestimate the importance of functional diversity. This is particularly common in Namibia, despite a clear, gradient in precipitation and where forecasts have predicted changes in precipitation regimes in the future. This study examined how tree species diversity and functional traits changed along an increasing rainfall gradient in northern Namibia. It employed a quantitative approach with systematic sampling at 13 points along an approximately 1200 km transect. Tree species diversity fluctuated along the gradient and average annual rainfall did not appear to have a significant effect, yet species diversity was highest at sites with high rainfall. There was no statistical difference in the species diversity among sites, but the estimated beta diversity was high. Plant functional diversity indices and plant functional traits varied along the gradient. All three functional diversity indices revealed weak relationships with species diversity. Among the three functional diversity indices, only functional richness was significantly affected by annual average rainfall. While the current study presents some contrasting results, it remains relevant by providing an understanding of the dynamics between plant species diversity and functional diversity. The results of the current study support the conclusion that plant species diversity and plant functional diversity are both vital components of ecosystem functioning, and that future research should incorporate a wider array of functional traits and use more comprehensive data collection methods that can build on the findings to further elucidate these complex interactions
Consumptive forest use and spatio-temporal abundance of wildlife in George Mukoya and Muduva Nyangana Community Conservancy in Northern Namibia
(University of Namibia, 2024) Liyeke, Miriam Mambo; Rutina, L. P.
Forests are important to people because they provide socio-economic and ecological goods and services such as the use of poles for building materials and income through selling. Studies have shown that the degradation or loss of forests has a direct impact on wildlife. In rural areas of Namibia, some forests on communal land are managed by the local communities to provide socio-economic benefits. If not well managed and the use is not sustainable (inappropriate use), may undermine the long-term ecological value of forest resources including wildlife. The Khaudum north complex conservancies (George Mukoya and Muduva Nyangana) were established in 2005 and community forests were gazetted in 2010. In the year 2012, the government of Namibia through the Ministry of Environment Forestry and Tourism integrated the wildlife conservancies and community forests, with the aim of harmonising the two land uses. Since then there were no studies to assess the community forest use on wildlife species and their habitat thus the need to conduct this study. This study used both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect data. Data on wildlife species abundance and distributions were collected from conservancies’ event books and game counts. Interviews were used to gather community perceptions on the consequences of their livelihood strategies on wildlife. A sample size of 293 respondents was obtained from the two conservancies. To assess the change in wildlife species abundance, the regression analysis with yearly wildlife group size as a dependent variable was applied. The distance from nearby settlements, fire intensity, and vegetation cover change as continuous independent variables; and conservancy (George Mukoya and Muduva Nyangana), species category (carnivores and herbivores), land use (multiple use and wildlife exclusive zones) and season (dry and wet) as categorical variables. Satellite images were used to analyse vegetation cover change and accumulated fire intensity using change detection analysis and empirical Bayesian kriging interpolation. Average group size means, and standard errors were calculated and used to determine the associations ii among variables. Contingency tables were used to analyse respondents’ perceptions of the influences of livelihood strategies and major socio-economic activities on wildlife. Generally, results showed a decrease in wildlife numbers in the study area between 2013 and 2017 (P <0.001). This was positively associated with vegetation change (P =0.032) and species category (P < 0.001), negatively by distance from settlement (P = 0.004) and land use (P < 0.001), but was not fire intensity (P = 0.714) and locality (conservancy) (P = 0.170). Carnivore density distribution was evenly spread in relation to distance from settlements, fire intensity, and vegetation change but was more in a wildlife-exclusive zone than the multiple-use zone. Herbivore distribution was denser in the wildlife-exclusive zone, more in areas where vegetation cover was high, and increased with increasing distance from settlements, but was not influenced by fire intensity. In both conservancies, the majority of respondents were either dependent on crop production (53%) or a combination of crop production and livestock (30%), with only 18% depending on other livelihood strategies. When asked what is the impact of their livelihood strategies on wildlife and its habitat, 75%, 17%, and 8% of the respondents said there no impact, impact, or no awareness, respectively. When the community was asked, what is the impact of the services they get from forestry on wildlife and its habitat, 73% of the respondents said there was no impact whereas 27% indicated that there was a significant impact. The study showed that the communities of George Mukoya and Muduva Nyangana are aware of the conservation issues in their areas and can manage wildlife successfully themselves.
Could China’s journey of malaria elimination extend to Africa?
(Infectious Diseases of poverty, 2022) Wang, Duoquan; Lv, Shan; Matengu, Keneth K.
World Health Organization (WHO) certified China malaria-free on June 30, 2021, which brightens the goal of global malaria elimination efforts. China contributed its unique innovations to the global community: Artemisinin, discovered by Tu Youyou, has saved millions of lives globally; the “1-3-7” norm developed in 2012, has been adapted in the local contexts of countries in the Southeast Asia and Africa. How to the targets of Global Technical Strategy for Malaria (GTS) 2016−2030. By looking into the malaria control phase, towards elimination phase from 1960 to 2011 in sub Saharan Africa and China, we found that the gap in malaria burden will widen unless the interventions in Africa are enhanced. It is imperative to identify the key China–Africa cooperation areas on malaria control and elimination, so that synergized efforts could be pooled together to help African countries achieve the elimination goal. The practices from China malaria control and elimination efforts could be leveraged to fast-track malaria elimination efforts in Africa, which makes it possible that the China’s journey of malaria elimination extends to Africa.

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