Torra Conservancy, located on communal lands in the Kunene region of northwest Namibia, is home to more than 1,200 residents, living in small settlements scattered across the 3,493-km2 territory. In 1995, the conservancy began a search for investors to develop an ecotourism enterprise in the territory, represented by the Ward 11 Residents’ Association Trust in negotiations. An eco-lodge was constructed in partnership with Wilderness Safaris Namibia, a private tourism operator, the first joint-venture agreement of its kind in Namibia.

Wilderness Safaris Namibia operates and maintains Damaraland Camp as a profitable ecotourism enterprise. Since its opening in 1996, the camp has been staffed mainly by local community members and, since 2002, managed by conservancy residents. Jobs at Damaraland Camp provide income for 23 full-time employees and managers, while Torra Conservancy also generates revenues through rent received from Wilderness Safari Namibia.

 

Key Facts 

Equator Prize Winner: 2004

Founded: 1996

Location: Northwest Namibia

Beneficiaries: Over 1,000 conservancy members

Biodiversity: 350,000-ha community conservancy

 

Case Study

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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