Naming and launching of National CBNRM Programme, with HE, the
President as Patron:
1. We need to clarify what we are launching and what we want to achieve out
of the launching:
a. Are we launching the conservancies programme or the broader
CBNRM programme? Since the conservancies programme was
already launched with the registration of the first four
conservancies in 1998, I would propose that we think about
launching the broader CBNRM Programme. The whole idea of
establishing and launching the National CBNRM Programme was
recommended during the LIFE Programme Review and National
Programme Assessment in the context of “Moving the
Programme to the Next Level”. (p16 – 30 of Midterm
Review and Assessment Report)
b. Through this, we could achieve broader inter-ministerial buy-in and
support for the programme, which will pave the way for integration
of all relevant sectors through policy harmonisation, technical
coordination, etc. This could also further pave the way for the
launching of the WB/GEF supported IEM Project, through this
programme. Furthermore, it could open up new avenues for
funding, i.e. under the rural development framework, etc.
c. It would also be advisable to think of a new neutral name for the
programme to accommodate all NGOs and Ministries directly
supporting the programme. Words like “Conservancies” and
“CBNRM” have been too closely associated with wildlife
management.
2. We need to consider the following in terms of timing and process:
a. This idea was originally raised during the LIFE Midterm review and
National CBNRM Programme Assessment in September 2001.
Hence, there is an urgency to act before the idea is forgotten or lost.
b. The potential for broadening the scope of the programme has been
increased through DRFN and CRIAA joining NACSO, however
a lot more still need to be done on inter-ministerial consultation
and agreement. Currently, money is provided for under the PDF-B
Project to facilitate inter-ministerial workshops in support of the
IEM Project. These are all due for completion by December /
January 2003.
c. The regional CBNRM Capacity Development Project Design
workshop that took place in July 2002, recommended the
adoption of CBNRM as rural development strategy in Southern
Africa, as the purpose for a 4-year regional project.
d. The envisaged regional CBNRM Conference that is planned for
March 2003, and the USAID Regional strategy that is currently
under development are both promoting the idea of Moving the
CBNRM Programme to the Next level.
e. The WWF President, Chief Anyaoku, has during his recent visit in
August 2002, paved the way for HE President Nuyoma to become
the patron of the National CBNRM Programme. (It might be
opportune to invite both Chief Anyaoku and Kathryn Fuller, the
WWF-US President to such occasion).
f. Perhaps the naming and launching of the programme
could coincide with the regional CBNRM conference in
March 2003. This is about 6 months from now, and allow
just enough time to:
i. Allow for initial inter-ministerial consultation and
agreement.
ii. Popularise the idea among the entire conservancy
movement, to make them feel part of the process
right from the planning stage through to the actual
launch!!
iii. Run a public competition to come up with a catchy
name and logo for the programme!!
iv. Send invitations to Esteemed Guests of honour.
v. Finalise framework for regional CBNRM conference
and invite regional delegates to witness the
occasion. (This may give momentum to the
envisaged regional capacity building project).
vi. Set up an organising committee ASAP to start with
planning and preparation of a Millenium Event!!