To safeguard natural resources and their environmental heritage, the Ministry of Environment, Tourism, and Forestry is urging all Namibians to adopt sustainable practices. 

Minister Indileni Daniel made this call at Otjiwarongo during the commemoration of the International Day for Biological Diversity.

This year's theme is 'harmony with nature and sustainable development'. 

In simple terms, biodiversity is the natural environment surrounding people, which includes different kinds of organisms. including plants and animals. 

Ideally, these organisms live and work together in harmony in a very delicate balance to form ecosystems that support life on Earth. 

However, despite being vital for survival on Earth, biodiversity loss is accelerating as a result of human activities, threatening habitat destruction and the extinction of species. 

The Ministry of Environment, Tourism, and Forestry has an action plan for 2025–2031 that will guide all efforts to stop biodiversity loss.

Daniel, in a speech read on her behalf by the Environmental Commissioner, Timoteus Mufeti, said the action plan requires inclusive participation. 

"Especially our marginalised groups, indigenous knowledge, women and youth to participate in this process to support the government in implementing this strategic plan."

The action plan will strengthen the government's efforts to address inequality, advance sustainability, respect traditional knowledge and empower local communities.

Otjiwarongo Mayor Gotlieb said residents should protect the town's natural resources while pursuing growth. 

"If we want to grow as a smart, sustainable city, then caring for our environment must be part of our plan. Hence, dear residents, stakeholders and investors, today we should ask ourselves, What does it mean to live in harmony with nature, and how do we do it?"

Speaking on behalf of the Otjozondjupa Governor was the Regional Council Chairperson, Johannes Hausiku.

"Sometimes we are burning veld fires, but we don't think about the small insects and reptiles that can not run away, so when we destroy them, we might not get them back." 

The decline of biodiversity has far-reaching consequences, not just for nature but also for humans and their health. 

Namibia, through the line ministry, is committed to the implementation of the global framework aimed at addressing issues related to biodiversity loss.