Breaking the Silence on Conservancy Conservation and Tourism vs Mining (Part 1 of 4)

Tristan Cowley founded Tou Safaris in 2003, specializing in naturalist guided safaris to Namibia. In 2008 it merged with a like-minded safari company, which is how the tour- and lodge-operating enterprise “Ultimate Safaris” was born. It is now one of Namibia’s most renowned naturalist and specialist guiding safari companies and has been very active in the northwest of Namibia, aiming to join the local population and find solutions that benefit conservancies’ human – as well as wildlife population.

After the recent awarding of mining rights in an established tourism destination, he decided to share his thoughts. The open letter was written before the elections and on account of its relevance, NMH brings it to you in four parts:



TRISTAN COWLEY WRITES:

As I sit to pen these thoughts, I reflect on the complexities of our national identity and the looming national elections, 34 years after Namibia gained independence.

Born into a family that supported the liberation struggle, my patriotism and commitment to Namibia’s future run deep. But today, I question whether these values are misplaced? What future does Namibia hold for my children, fourth-generation Namibians, in a country fraught with systemic challenges?

Since independence, Namibia has boasted immense natural wealth and opportunities. Yet, it remains difficult to identify post-independence business success stories that contribute meaningfully to the nation. Enterprises thriving without preferential treatment or government-backed initiatives are few and far between, especially those that have contributed meaningfully to communities and fostered sustainable growth. Why, in a resource-rich nation, do we struggle to foster broad-based success?

The answer seems rooted in systems designed by our government to benefit individuals rather than communities and the wider society, creating a culture of short-term enrichment over sustainable growth.

The process surrounding government tenders, mining claims, fishing quotas, and recently even tourism concessions, often prioritize personal gain over collective benefit.

Worse still, this trend is sometimes openly supported by politicians, who disregard the long-term welfare of communities for short-term personal or political gains. Recently, one politician suggested that two well-connected individuals’ mining ventures outweighed the rights and livelihoods of entire communities dependent on conservancy-driven tourism – a model that benefits thousands while preserving Namibia’s environmental heritage.

This systemic bias not only deepens inequality but also perpetuates historical injustices under the guise of progress. This is not patriotism – it’s profiteering at the expense of Namibia’s most vulnerable.



A CASE FOR CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Ultimate Safaris, a company I co-founded, represents an alternative vision for Namibia’s economic and social development.

We are a Namibian brand dedicated to creating a positive impact. From humble beginnings, we have grown into a business employing nearly 150 Namibians, many of whom have risen from entry-level roles to positions of significant responsibility.

We provide private medical aid, pension schemes, and opportunities for growth that far exceed the support provided by government structures in over three decades. – To be continued



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