Global tropical forest loss slows, but El Niño poses fire risk
via The Namibian3 min read
New satellite data indicates a slowdown in tropical rainforest loss during 2025, with approximately 43,000 square kilometers of old-growth tropical forests lost globally. This figure represents a 36% decrease compared to the record losses observed in 2024. Despite this improvement, scientists caution that tropical forests are still vanishing at a significantly faster rate than a decade ago. Researchers attribute the reduced loss in 2025 to enhanced forest protection efforts in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Malaysia. However, concerns remain regarding the potential for increased and more severe forest fires due to the combined effects of climate change and the anticipated arrival of the warming El Niño weather pattern later this year.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
The Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security has defended its work visa policy for foreign pilots, stating it is fair and not hindering the airline industry. Executive director Nghidinua Daniel explained that work visas are granted to foreigners only when they are qualified and no Namibians are available for the roles, prioritizing Namibian citizens in the labor market. This defense follows a white paper from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association Aopa highlighting a critical shortage of pilots, with only 202 Namibian commercial pilot license holders, leading to a shortfall of at least 74 commercial pilots and flight instructors. The association claims this shortage has caused airlines to ground planes, particularly impacting high-end tourism dependent on charter flights. Daniel also noted that applications might be rejected if incomplete or if there's insufficient proof of efforts to recruit Namibians. He added that expatriates are expected to help build local capacity through understudy programs and skills transfer. However, Aopa chief executive Matt Totten stated that commercial pilot licenses cannot be earned through observation, requiring formal training at an accredited Namibian Civil Aviation Authority NCAA training organization. He emphasized that flying fare-paying passengers without a valid NCAA-issued or validated commercial pilot license is a criminal offense. Totten also mentioned that flight instructors are fully employed, producing only 10
Namaqualand, a region with a rich mining history dating back to the Nama people's early metalwork and Dutch-era prospecting, continues to be a significant route for travelers. The area's copper belt has influenced its towns, travel routes, and livelihoods for centuries. While signs of poverty are evident today, there is renewed interest in copper exploration, driven by rising global demand. For motorists traveling between Windhoek and Cape Town, finding comfortable overnight accommodation is a key concern. The Okiep Country Hotel and Springbok Inn are highlighted as reliable options. The author, Danny Meyer, recounts finding these hotels in December 2022, praising their comfort, maintenance, attractive pricing, capable staff, and solid dining. The Okiep Country Hotel is described as a classic mining-town hub, while the Springbok Inn offers a more modern feel. Both establishments provide a clean, quiet environment for weary travelers. Beyond just a stopover, Namaqualand's unique beauty, history, and cultural sites offer opportunities for a longer visit.
Must ReadFourteen individuals, including two pensioners, have been arrested in connection with the poaching of seven rhinos in Etosha National Park and one at a nearby farm. Omusati regional police commander commissioner Ismael Basson confirmed the arrests. Among those apprehended are Thomas Jafet 66, also known as ‘Familia’, and Timoteus Amuthenu 60, who were arrested on April 22. Other suspects include Andreas Shanghala 35, Ndeulikusa Kunasha 56, Petrus Mumbala 47, Tjambiru Vetengapo 30, Kapenduka Ruhozu 35, Paulus Matias 25, Efraim Malakia 30, Levisiana Muzuma 33, and Elifas January 44, who is allegedly a Meatco employee. Two women, Secilia Fernandu, an Angolan national, and Ndinelago Awala 34, are also among the suspects, along with two other Angolan nationals, Raphael Tjipito 28 and Ndapohoni Haufiku 24. Ministry of Environment and Tourism spokesperson Vilho Hangula stated that eight rhinos have been poached this year, comprising four black and four white rhinos. Seven of these incidents occurred in Etosha National Park, and one at a private farm. All suspects have appeared in court. Hangula declined to comment on alleged rituals by traditional healers to protect poachers, citing the sensitivity of the information and potential to jeopardize ongoing investigations.
Must ReadTotalEnergies has expressed increasing confidence in Namibia, referring to it as a "new anchor country" as the company moves towards a final investment decision for its Venus project by July. During the TotalEnergies first quarter earnings call on April 29, chief executive Patrick Pouyanné stated that discussions with Namibian authorities indicate a mutually beneficial partnership. Pouyanné noted that the war in the Middle East has affected the company's operations, making exploration in Namibia a way to diversify. The company expects to make a final investment decision on the Venus project before the end of July and is currently finalizing paperwork with the Namibian government. Pouyanné mentioned that a compromise has been reached on terms for the Venus project, acknowledging that ultra-deep water projects require amendments to standard terms. He described engagements with the government as generally positive, highlighting talks with president Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah in January, after which TotalEnergies announced its stake in Galp Energia’s Mopane project. Pouyanné anticipates TotalEnergies and its partners will focus on drilling in Mopane over the next two years to assess its resource base, with a final investment decision for Mopane expected in 2028.