- randolphmouton
- Nov 6
- 3 min read
The development of human settlements in the Zambezi Region has been influenced by various factors, including historical migration patterns, economic activities, social services, culture and natural resources (Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism , 2021). Early settlements were often established along rivers and fertile lands, which provided essential resources for agriculture and livestock farming. Over time, these settlements grew into larger communities as people settled in a specific area for trade, farming, and access to water. These settlements are defined as clustered settlements. With modernisation, increased human and wildlife populations, cultural practices, economic activities, social services, agricultural practices, natural resources, government policies, and family dynamics, amongst other factors, linear settlements began to develop approximately 10-15 years ago. These settlements typically developed along main highways, roads, or rivers. These settlements are characterised by linear arrangements of houses and infrastructure along a single line.
The Zambezi Region, therefore, has two settlement models: clustered and linear. Both models have advantages and disadvantages. However, concerns have been raised about the negative impact of linear settlements on the provision of basic social services and landscapes that are critically important for developing a wildlife-based economy. It also cuts off migratory routes for wildlife, which is one of the region’s competitive advantages in the global economy.Â
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) contracted Sustainable Development Africa (SusDAf) to carry out an assessment called Sustainable Settlements Within the Intact Landscapes of Zambezi Region: Why People Live Where They Do? (in short, Sustainable Urbanisation in the Zambezi Region( SUZR)).
The SUZR Assessment aimed to inspire local governments and key stakeholders to embrace sustainable urbanisation in the Zambezi Region. This transformative initiative aimed to discourage linear and disorganised settlement patterns and pave the way for a more sustainable development model. Fostering this change ensures that communities enjoy improved access to essential social and economic services while simultaneously enhancing environmental stewardship. It creates vibrant, connected communities that thrive in harmony with nature.
The overall assessment approach was qualitative in nature, complemented by a national and international literature review. Understanding what has been done elsewhere was essential to learning from best practices. The assessment was rooted in spatial baseline mapping of linear settlements, clearly identifying the challenge posed by the general obstruction of transboundary and regional wildlife migration routes caused by linear settlements along rivers and roads, and showing actual sites that are closed off.Â
The SUZR Assessment concluded that a well-established, functioning sustainable clustered settlement model in the Zambezi Region can address key challenges and promote holistic social, economic, and environmental development. By focusing on efficient land use, fostering community cohesion, supporting local economic growth, and prioritising ecological conservation, the model has the potential to create sustainable, vibrant communities. Engaging key stakeholders (including local communities, Traditional Authorities, government agencies, NGOs, and the private sector) will be essential to ensure the success of this initiative. Through effective communication, continuous community involvement, and the development of supportive policies, clustered settlements can be created that are resilient, economically prosperous, environmentally friendly, harmonious living between humans and wildlife, and socially inclusive. Ultimately, by implementing this model, communities can be built that not only meet the needs of today, but also thrive for generations to come, balancing human development with environmental stewardship in one of Namibia’s most ecologically significant regions.
The full report can be officially requested from WWF, which holds the copyrights of the SUZR Report.
