Implementation Phases
Preparatory (PDF-B) Phase (2004 - 2005):
This phase prepares the ground for the implementation of the full phase by conducting necessary assessments to compile a project document to secure a significant amount of funding for the first full phase (Phase 1). The document was submitted to the GEF Council in May 2005. There are five (5) major outputs of this phase:
- Economic analysis and feasibility study for parks financing
- Capacity assessment for parks management in conservation at individual, institutional and systemic levels
- Conservation needs assessment
- Monitoring and evaluation plan
- Project document for presentation to the GEF and other parties
Phase 1 (2006-2011):
The first phase will focus on:
- Improving the policy and legal framework, institutional capacity and mechanisms concerning PA management and financing;
- Supporting current initiatives of the MET concerning the improvement of planning and management of three major existing PA areas (Etosha-Skeleton Coast, Bwabwata-Mudumu-Mamili complex, and the Ai-Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park), and the proclamation and management planning of a new park (Sperrgebiet NP);
- Identification of gaps of under - representation in the national network and option to fill these; and establishing long term financial mechanisms for Pas in Namibia.
Phase 2 (2012 - 2016):
The second phase, dependent upon success in the first place, will build on the first and will focus on investments in the consolidation and expansion of the protected area network and the management thereof, by:
- Developing parks in biomes that are currently not represented in the national network;
- Upgrading management planning for the remaining parks;
- Expanding the smaller parks where feasible; and
- Extensively testing long - term sustainable financing mechanisms for parks set up during the first phase.
Throughout the project, a strong emphasis will be placed on the progressive introduction of best practices both nationally and SADC-wide through proactive knowledge management.