By Elzanne McCulloch
Between 17 December 2024 and 7 January 2025 a coalition of dedicated conservation partners launched a crucial aerial surveillance operation over Damaraland. The goal was to combat wildlife crime, strengthen conservation efforts and protect Namibia’s unique biodiversity during the festive season, a time when poaching risks often escalate. Led by Dr Conrad Brain, head of conservation within the Wilderness Impact team in Namibia, this initiative formed part of the broader Ecowings Namibia project, a testament to the power of collaboration in safeguarding the country’s natural heritage.
Operating from Palmwag Airfield, the mission utilised two aircraft, a Cessna 182 and a Piper Super Cub, to cover an impressive 12800 kilometres – over 608 flight hours. Flying at an average altitude of 200 feet, the planes provided vital observation capabilities across vast, often inaccessible landscapes. These aerial patrols served as a visible deterrent to illegal activities while also assisting ground teams in their conservation efforts. Generous fuel sponsorship from the Namibia Nature Foundation (NNF) enabled the operation to be carried out effectively.
The success of Ecowings Namibia underscores the critical role of collaboration in conservation. The initiative brings together a diverse range of organisations, including the Namibia Chamber of Environment, Rooikat, Wilderness, Save the Rhino Trust (SRT), the Namibia Nature Foundation, Skycore, Medical Rescue Africa, and Westair Aviation. Support also comes from Namibia’s Ministry of Environment Forestry and Tourism (MEFT), the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) and other private stakeholders. By pooling expertise and resources, these partners amplify their impact, reinforcing a united front against threats to Namibia’s wildlife.
The primary objective of the aerial patrols was deterrence. As Dr Brain aptly put it: “Even if we don’t see much from the air, everyone on the ground sees us.” This persistent presence sends a strong message: poachers, illegal miners, and plant thieves are being closely watched. Beyond deterring crime, the surveillance flights played a crucial role in assisting Save the Rhino Trust’s field teams. When rangers identified tracks but struggled to locate rhinos, the aircraft scouted vast areas to pinpoint movements, enabling more effective monitoring on the ground.
Observing more than just wildlife, the flights were instrumental in detecting signs of disturbance, carcasses, and shifts in animal movement – critical indicators of potential threats to the ecosystem. To protect Namibia’s rhino population, all location and sighting data remain confidential.
Beyond protecting wildlife, Ecowings Namibia extended its impact to the communities living alongside these conservation areas. Dr Brain took children from surrounding villages on flights, offering them a rare aerial perspective of their homeland, an inspiring experience that fosters a deeper connection to conservation from a young age.
Local knowledge also played a crucial role in the operation’s success. SRT’s Epson Rukuma provided invaluable insights into the region’s terrain and wildlife, significantly enhancing the efficiency of the surveillance missions.
Building on the success of this operation, future plans for Ecowings Namibia include the introduction of a pilot training component in partnership with Westair Aviation. This initiative will offer trainee pilots the opportunity to gain hands- on experience in remote area flight operations, bolstering Namibia’s capacity for conservation-focused aerial missions.
As Ecowings Namibia demonstrates, conservation is about far more than protecting wildlife – it is about fostering partnerships, engaging local communities and creating a sustainable future where both people and nature thrive. Through continued collaboration and innovation, Namibia’s iconic landscapes and wildlife can remain a national treasure for generations to come.
As Namibia transitions into a new chapter, we extend our deepest gratitude to outgoing President Nangolo Mbumba for his dedicated service during this time of change. Serving as Namibia’s president following the passing of the late Dr. Hage Geingob, President Mbumba has been a steady hand guiding the nation through a period of transition.
In a significant step toward improving airport security and awareness, SIGNA Aviation Training ATO, in collaboration with the Office of the Inspector General of the Namibian Police (NAMPOL), hosted an important training event focused on Human Trafficking Awareness and Illegal Wildlife Trade.
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As the first light of dawn stretched over the Lüderitz Waterfront, we gathered at the jetty, greeted by the crisp morning air and the promise of adventure. The crew of Penguin Catamaran Tours welcomed us aboard with warm smiles, their enthusiasm setting the tone for what would be an unforgettable journey.
