Khoadi Hoas Conservancy
3,364 km2
Khoadi Hôas is a community-driven management body established to promote the well-being of residents and ensure sustainable wildlife conservation and tourism. Located in the Kunene Region of northwestern Namibia, this conservancy spans an impressive area of 3,366 square kilometers. Recognized as one of the pioneering conservancies, it obtained official registration from the government in June 1998.
Home to approximately 3,200 inhabitants, Khoadi Hôas primarily communicates in Khoekhoegowab, specifically the Damara/Nama dialect. The region boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including majestic creatures such as elephants, black rhinos, lions, leopards, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, giraffes, mountain zebras, springboks, oryx, and kudus.
Notably, Khoadi Hôas played a vital role in the successful reintroduction of the black rhino and black-faced impala. These conservation efforts demonstrated the government's trust in the conservancy's capability to safeguard rare and valuable species. The area encompasses numerous endemic species, making it a crucial component of the broader conservation initiatives undertaken in northwestern Namibia.
Trophy hunting, tourism, and meat hunting constitute the primary sources of revenue for the conservancy. Land has been allocated for wildlife preservation and tourism purposes, with wildlife monitoring being conducted in collaboration with government entities and non-governmental organizations. Environmental shepherds employed by Khoadi Hôas oversee grazing and livestock conditions while addressing water supply concerns.
Renowned for its innovative practices, Khoadi Hôas became the first conservancy to integrate the management of wildlife, livestock, rangeland, and water resources. Additionally, it holds the distinction of being the first conservancy to fully own a lodge and subsequently acquire the Hobatere tourism concession rights.
