Over 500 pangolins poached since 2018, environment ministry’s Muyunda says

The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism says 570 pangolins have been poached in Namibia since 2018.

In a media statement to celebrate World Pangolin Day on Saturday, ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said the ministry has reaffirmed its dedication to protecting the nation’s pangolins, highlighting their ecological importance and the urgent need to combat threats such as habitat loss and illegal trafficking.

He said to address concerns about pangolin trafficking, the government has developed a national species management plan in collaboration with the Namibian Pangolin Working Group, which will be released this year.

“The government of Namibia remains committed to strengthening conservation efforts through legislation, enforcement and collaboration with local communities and non-government organisations like the Pangolin Conservation and Research Foundation,” he said.

Muyunda said the ministry has rescued, released and monitored 35 pangolins over the past four years through partnerships.

“Our goal is to ensure the long-term survival of pangolins and protect our nation’s biodiversity,” he said.

He also reminded the public that the trafficking of wildlife is a serious offence that could lead to arrests and sentencing.

“To date, the heaviest sentence was nine years’ direct imprisonment, and the heaviest fine was N$800 000 for the trafficking of pangolin or its parts,” Muyunda said.

He encouraged the public to report illegal wildlife activities and join efforts to protect pangolins by spreading awareness and supporting conservation programmes.

“As we celebrate World Pangolin Day, Namibia calls for global cooperation to protect this unique species and ensure a future where pangolins thrive in the wild,” Muyunda said.