Wilderness camp teaches children about conservation

Sixty learners from seven schools across Namibia’s Kunene Region were recently hosted by Children in the Wilderness Namibia to gain experience in conservation, leadership and adventure.

The six-day Eco-Camp, which was held in the Ehi-Rovipuka Conservancy, was designed to inspire and educate these learners.

“These camps are about far more than just learning; they are about igniting passion for conservation in young minds”, said Agnes Tjirare-Kerii, Wilderness Namibia impact manager.

“By getting these children out of their everyday classroom environments and exposing them to the wonders of our natural world, we are shaping future leaders who will advocate for wildlife and the protection of the environment," she explained.

Essential skills

Started in 2001, Children in the Wilderness is a non-profit organisation and award-winning environmental and life-skills programme managed by Wilderness. It aims to inspire and educate children living in and near the concessions where Wilderness operates.

“In the last ten years in Namibia alone, we have hosted more than 600 children across 16 eco-camps. In addition to the camps, we currently have up to 400 children from between 10 and 15 schools participating in our weekly eco-clubs. These allow us to give more children across the country a chance to learn about the environment and their place in protecting it,” Tjirare-Kerii said.



Up close and personal

She said the recent camp at Ehi-Rovipuka, which borders the Etosha National Park, was structured into two sessions, allowing eco-mentors and camp facilitators to focus their attention on smaller groups of children.

It also gave each group the opportunity to get involved in a range of activities covering environmental education, personal growth, and teamwork.

From setting up tents to tracking wildlife, the entire schedule was designed to foster a deeper understanding of Namibia’s unique ecosystems, according to a statement by Wilderness.

“One of the highlights for our campers was undoubtedly the day trip to Etosha, one of Namibia’s spectacular natural gems. They had the opportunity to see some of our country’s iconic wildlife, including elephants, zebras and springboks. One really exciting moment came during a lion-tracking activity, when the children were able to witness a lion in its natural habitat. This first-hand experience deepens their appreciation for wildlife conservation in a way that wouldn’t be possible in the classroom back home,” Tjirare-Kerii said.

In addition to thrilling wildlife encounters, the camp also challenged participants physically and mentally.

A fun mountain-climbing expedition tested their endurance, reinforcing valuable lessons about persevering and working as a team.

From an environmental education point of view, engaging workshops covered topics such as soil erosion, deforestation and sustainable agriculture, while practical activities allowed the children to learn how small actions such as planting trees can create lasting impact on their communities.

“It was incredible to see how these young learners grasped complex environmental concepts through hands-on experiences. These lessons will stay with them long after they’ve left,” Tjirare-Kerii noted.

Stewards

When the camp drew to a close, the children packed up their tents, cleaned the campsite and enjoyed a memorable closing ceremony, during which they received certificates of attendance.

Wilderness said that the certificates are more than just recognition of their participation but symbolise their commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship in the future.

“I truly believe that the impact of Children in the Wilderness extends far beyond the camp itself. These kids return home not only with new knowledge but with a renewed sense of purpose – to protect and cherish Namibia’s natural heritage for generations to come, said Tjirare-Kerii.