National Geographic, De Beers renew Okavango conservation pledge

The National Geographic Society and De Beers Group have renewed their Okavango Eternal partnership, a move that coincides with the formation of an Alliance by Angola, Botswana, and Namibia to enhance transboundary cooperation across the Okavango River Basin.

A Renewed Commitment to Conservation

Launched in 2021, the Okavango Eternal initiative focuses on protecting the Basin, which supports over one million people and one of the world’s largest elephant populations. The partnership also aims to expand conservation-related livelihood opportunities for local communities.

During the next five years, the partners will work to secure formal protection for approximately 54,000 square kilometers at the Basin’s source in Angola, while strengthening community-led stewardship systems across the region.

Milestones and Achievements

The first phase of the partnership saw significant achievements, including Angola’s designation of Lisima Lya Mwono as the country’s first Ramsar Wetland of International Importance. The initiative also advanced 19 local research expeditions, documented new species, and mapped 230 carbon-storing peatland sites.

Through a watcher program, 82 community members were trained to monitor over 20,000 square kilometers of forest at the Basin’s Angolan source. The initiative supported 2,118 conservation-linked livelihood opportunities across the three countries, including beekeeping, basket weaving, and regenerative agriculture.

A Shared Vision for the Future

President Boko of Botswana emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation across the Basin, deepening scientific understanding of this globally significant ecosystem, and expanding opportunities for communities through conservation, transboundary tourism, and sustainable livelihoods.

The Okavango Eternal partnership will continue to support the work of the National Geographic Okavango Wilderness Project, with impact work implemented by the Wild Bird Trust family of organizations. Future efforts will focus on advancing conservation through science and traditional knowledge, inspiring new career pathways, and expanding livelihood opportunities.

The Alliance among Angola, Botswana, and Namibia will play a key role in aligning conservation efforts, mobilizing resources, and ensuring the long-term protection of the Basin supports the distinct development priorities of each country. With the renewed partnership, the Okavango Eternal initiative is poised to make even greater strides in protecting this vital ecosystem and supporting the communities that depend on it.