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Namibia's Desert Blooms: Wildlife's Triumphant Return
19 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Namibia's Orange River-Karoo conservation area is restoring 2.4 million acres.
- Wildlife populations in southern Namibia declined drastically over two centuries.
- ORKCA uses technology and community efforts for wildlife restoration.
In Namibia's southern desert, the Orange River-Karoo conservation area is experiencing a significant revival of its native wildlife. After suffering a drastic decline of 90% in its animal populations due to poaching, mining, and land conversion over the past two centuries, the region is now seeing a resurgence.
Conservationists have successfully reintroduced species like ostriches, springbok, and oryx onto 2.4 million acres of restored land. This effort is led by ORKCA, a nonprofit founded in 2020, with crucial support from the Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. The project employs advanced tracking technology and community engagement to monitor migration patterns and ensure the animals' safety.
The Orange River-Karoo, a unique ecological zone spanning desert, Nama Karoo, and Succulent Karoo biomes, is vital for biodiversity. ORKCA's work, including removing old fences and installing communication towers, is crucial for restoring this landscape, aiming to create a transboundary park that protects both wildlife and the life-giving Orange River.
