When one poses the question: “Why Tourism Matters?”, this story is a beautiful answer, and emphasises why the tourism industry is so passionate about bringing hope to those who need it most.

Between November 2024 and January 2025, Wilderness Namibia came forth to assist communities facing the harshest drought in decades. With compassion and care, they initiated a Drought-relief Nutrition Programme, which has seen the delivery of over 1,200 food parcels, specifically to eight of the most affected communities. Directly, this action has helped approximately 2,160 people gain access to much-needed food.

Alex Henderson, Wilderness Namibia Managing Director, stated, “For three decades, we have had positive interactions with these communities. Investment in their wellbeing is critical for preserving wildlife and wild areas. We are really thankful for the N$ 892,000 donation from the Michael and Karen Stone Family Foundation as it aids us in addressing the crucial food insufficiency issue among our partners within the conservancies, such as Doro !Nawas, Ehi Rovipuka Torra, Sesfontein, and Marienfluss, as well as communities in Rietoog and Mariental.”

The drought’s impact is devastating for people, livestock, and wildlife alike. Agnes Tjirare-Kerii, the Impact Manager, underlined: “Towns are having a very hard time, and in some places, there is absolutely no water. The lack of rain leads to failed crops and mass livestock mortality. Our food aid programme is just one of the many initiatives we are pursuing to assist people who are suffering until the arrival of significant rains.”

To ensure that every food parcel optimised nutrition, Wilderness Namibia consulted community leaders. On average, each parcel delivered can sustain a family of four for a month, and included essentials like cooking oil, sugar, maize, rice, and more.

Seeing the joy on the faces of community members as they delivered the parcels to them was heart-warming. But Wilderness’ commitment didn’t end there. They expanded the programme to give drought-relief nutrition in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia as well, providing support to over 15,000 people through the delivery of approximately 8,000 emergency food parcels by January 2025.

In these difficult times, Wilderness Namibia is continuously making an effort to create change in the communities that are in need. They believe that together they can weather the conditions and come out stronger than before.

To watch a video showcasing Wilderness Namibia’s drought-relief efforts, click here. Or visit the Wilderness Trust’s page here to learn more about their work.