UNDP-ALM Namibia Case Study - December 2012

Abstract: Namibia is one of the most arid countries south of the Sahara, characterized by high climatic variability in the form of persistent droughts, unpredictable and variable rainfall patterns, variability in temperatures and scarcity of water. The Initial National Communication (2002) classified Namibia as highly vulnerable to the predicted effects of climate change. Expected climate change impacts will most significantly affect water availability and natural resource management. Water scarcity poses negative consequences for agriculture, power generation, infrastructure, tourism, and human health. Changing patterns and intensity of rainfall are likely to also increase the rate of soil erosion, affecting crop production and livestock. In response this project aims at enhancing the adaptive capacities of farmers, pastoralists and natural resource managers to climate change in agricultural and pastoral systems in north-central Namibia. As part of the Country Pilot Partnership for Integrated Sustainable Land Management (CPP), this project is piloting a host of interventions to address the underlying causes of land degradation in Namibia. The goal of the CPP is to combat land degradation and promote environmental sustainability through integrated approaches. In support of this, project activities should be based on assessments conducted prior to project implementation. Project implementation thus far has reinforced the importance of integrating operational programmes within ministries, community projects, and regional offices.