Namibia - Wildlife Conservation

Research. data gathering and interaction with animals and humans.

In Denmark we are discussing the entitlement of wolves in the nature - in Namibia the problem is exactly the same, namely human/wildlife conflict. Here, the extend is just a lot bigger, since they are dealing with cheetahs, leopards, lions, hyenas and african wild dogs. Their territories diminish as the human population grows and agricultural areas spread. Poaching is also a major factor in large parts of Africa.

Destination

Namibia is situated in the south-western part of Africa and the country is a former German colony. The official language is English and the main religion is Christianity. It is among the safest countries in Africa to travel in. We are mainly going to spend our time in the region around the capital city Windhoek.

The purpose

The overall purpose of the trip is to visit N/a'an ku sê - Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary, a non-profit organisation that cares for injured and orphaned animals with the aim of returning them to the wild. N/a'an ku sê has research facilities around Namibia and we will endeavour to visit one of these sites.

We will be part of the N/a'an ku së team of volunteers and our tasks can include some of the following:

• Preparing food and feeding the animals in the center (UN World Goal 15 - Life on land)
• Cleaning and maintaining the fences
• Stimulating the animals/walking the animals (e.g. baboons and cheetahs)
• Rebuilding fences
• Counting the number of wild animals
• Gathering data via camera traps and GPS
• Visit to the local school for the children of the bushmen(UN goal no. 4 - Quality education)
• Cultural/historic tour to Windhoek

Lessons before the trip

First of all, we will work to find knowledge about Namibia and its endangered species. In addition, we can hopefully visit Randers Rainforest or Aalborg Zoo for a talk about animal ethics. We will also work on raising sponsorship and money for the centre and school in Namibia.

Demands for the students

This subject is for the students who are dedicated to working with animals and making a small difference. It is going to be a lot of hard work mixed with pleasure and spectacular experiences.

Meeting new people and a new culture, where the conditions of life are very different, with an open mind.

You have to be ready for hard work and getting dirty.

A big part of the project consists of data gathering, so a real interest in the animals and their living conditions is a plus.

Passport must be valid at least 6 months after the trip begins.

Vaccinations: Tetanus, Diphtheria, Hepatitis A (rabies vaccination is not required)

Teachers

Carsten Ardal ca@ranumefterskole.dk

Terms and economy

Self-payment: Approx. 13,000 kr.

Pocket money: Approx. 500-1.000 DKK. recommended

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