26 Elephants Relocated from Namibia to Angola in Huge Conservation Effort

Twenty-six elephants have been successfully relocated from Namibia’s Okonjati Game Reserve to the Cuatir Conservation Area in southeastern Angola. This marks a major step in establishing Angola’s first private conservation area, a concept that has long been common in other parts of Southern Africa but remains new to Angola.

The 124-square-mile Cuatir Conservation Area, founded by Namibian conservationist Stefan van Wyk, represents a pioneering approach in a country where private Conservation areas are not officially recognized. Van Wyk’s efforts come at a crucial time, as southeastern Angola is increasingly seen as an area with untapped potential for wildlife Conservation and ecotourism. However, much work remains to develop the region’s national parks into viable Conservation sites.

On September 2, 2024, the translocation team completed the final phase of their mission, moving the elephants across the border into Cuatir. The elephants had been relocated over four separate journeys, with each trip presenting logistical challenges due to the rough terrain and significant distances involved.

The importance of Cuatir’s establishment lies not only in its unique status but also in the broader potential it holds for Angola’s Conservation efforts. Angola’s National Institute for Biodiversity and Protected Areas (INBAC) has recognized Cuatir as a promising model for future private Conservation efforts. “I think Stefan is creating something new in Angola,” said Miguel Xavier, INBAC’s director. “We don’t have this kind of structure in Angola, personally, I think it’s a good opportunity.”

The region where Cuatir is located, Cuando Cubango province, has faced significant challenges in wildlife conservation. Populations were devastated during Angola’s 27-year civil war, which ended in 2002. Since then, the province has remained sparsely populated and largely undeveloped, with poor infrastructure contributing to its isolation. The difficult 223-mile journey from Mavinga to Menongue, the provincial capital, can take over 12 hours, reflecting the logistical challenges of working in the area.

Despite these obstacles, southeastern Angola offers a rare opportunity for Conservation due to the availability of vast, open spaces. Many conservationists have pointed to the area’s potential, particularly as neighboring Botswana’s Okavango Delta thrives as a model for wildlife tourism. Cuatir Conservation Area aims to mirror similar success in Angola.

Private Conservation areas, like Cuatir, have proven effective in countries such as South Africa and Namibia. In Namibia alone, private reserves cover thousands of square kilometers and complement the nation’s state-run parks. Studies have shown that private Conservation areas can play a key role in preserving biodiversity, and Cuatir could provide a similar boost to Angola’s Conservation efforts.

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