By Kaundjire Humbu
The country’s first Environmental Crimes Court in Otjiwarongo is strengthening the fight against wildlife trafficking, with 47 of 50 cases handled resulting in convictions since its inauguration in August 2024.
U.S. Ambassador to Namibia John Giordano said wildlife trafficking is not merely a conservation issue but a form of transnational organised crime linked to drugs, weapons and human trafficking.
The United States contributed more than N$2.5 million towards the court’s construction and specialised training for prosecutors.
Giordano said wildlife products such as rhino horn, pangolin scales, elephant ivory and timber generate billions for criminal net- works operating across borders.
Since 2016, a U.S. initiative worth about $19 million has supported law-enforcement efforts, including the establishment of the Wood Identification Screening Center in Windhoek.
Giordano stressed that international cooperation, specialised skills and strong institutions remain crucial to dismantling wildlife-trafficking networks and protecting the country’s natural heritage.
