Renthia Kaimbi
The Erongo Regional Council has started consultations to update Namibia’s climate policy. The discussions took place during a stakeholder workshop held on 9 and 10 April in Swakopmund. The meeting forms part of a national process to review the 2011 National Policy on Climate Change and align it with current challenges and commitments.
The workshop brought together officials from the Erongo Regional Council, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, the Environmental Investment Fund of Namibia (EIF), as well as technical experts and development partners. Participants discussed policy gaps, coordination and implementation.
The draft policy shows that Namibia remains highly exposed to climate change.
More than 83% of the country is arid or semi-arid. Rainfall is low and unpredictable.
Since the 1960s, temperatures have increased by between 1.2 and 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Droughts have become more frequent, with major events recorded in 1991 and 1992, 2013, 2019 and 2023–2024.
These conditions have led to crop failures, livestock losses and rising food insecurity, especially in rural areas that depend on rain-fed farming.
Participants also raised concern about flooding in northern regions and rising sea levels along the coast. Coastal towns such as Walvis Bay and Lüderitz face risks from storm surges and erosion. Inland areas continue to deal with water shortages and land degradation.
The draft policy notes that Namibia’s economy depends on sectors affected by climate change, including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, mining and energy. It warns that climate impacts could affect food security, economic stability and livelihoods.
Agriculture and forestry contribute a large share of emissions. The country also imports between 60% and 70% of its electricity, which increases supply risks.
The discussions also highlighted opportunities. Namibia’s solar and wind resources could support renewable energy development. Other opportunities include a blue economy, restoring degraded land and accessing carbon markets.
The revised policy focuses on both adaptation and reducing emissions. Proposed measures include improving water security, promoting climate-smart farming, protecting biodiversity and building stronger infrastructure.
Namibia aims to reduce emissions by up to 91% by 2030 under its international commitments.
Participants noted challenges in the current system, including weak coordination, limited capacity and the absence of a dedicated climate law.
The draft proposes a climate change act and a cabinet-level structure to improve coordination across government.
Funding remains a concern. The policy calls for a national climate finance strategy to attract funding from local and international sources, including private investment.
The draft also stresses the need to include vulnerable groups such as rural communities, women, youth and indigenous groups in decision-making.
The policy will be implemented through five-year National Climate Change Action Plans, starting with the 2025–2030 cycle, aligned with Vision 2030 and national development plans.
The Swakopmund consultations will help refine the policy before it is finalised.
