Game translocations boost wildlife recovery

The Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism has completed the translocation of hundreds of wild animals from Etosha National Park to conservancies in Kunene and the Nyae Nyae area as part of efforts to restore wildlife populations, improve biodiversity and reduce human-wildlife conflict.

Between 22 and 29 June 2026, the ministry moved 256 springbok and 190 oryx to Kunene. A further 90 plains zebras were relocated to Nyae Nyae Conservancy, while 15 gemsbok and 24 plains zebras were moved to the Uukwaluudhi Conservancy.

The ministry said the translocations were aimed at replenishing wildlife populations affected by prolonged droughts. The relocated animals are also expected to support predator populations, including lions, by providing a more sustainable prey base while helping to reduce human-wildlife conflict in affected areas.

The programme will continue in the coming months, with plans to move an additional 150 oryx to Kunene, as well as 20 giraffe and 200 common impala to Nyae Nyae.

The ministry said the initiative forms part of its wider wildlife management strategy to restore ecological balance and improve the resilience of wildlife populations in conservancies affected by environmental pressures.