Implementing Local Climate Change Adaptation Actions: The Role of Various Policy Instruments in Mopane (Colophospermum mopane) Woodlands, Northern Namibia

Abstract

The impacts of climate change are severe in rural communities because of their proximity to forest ecosystems. Colophospermum mopane woodlands are vital in supporting the livelihood of the rural communities in the mopane woodlands while contributing to biodiversity conservation. There is limited research regarding implementing policy instruments for climate change adaptation in rural areas of the mopane woodlands in northern Namibia. This study aims to investigate this subject from the mopane woodlands’ point of view to understand the implementation of policy instruments for climate change adaptation in the mopane woodlands. We conducted an online survey focusing on multiple stakeholders, experts in different sectors, and local communities. Major challenges such as a limited general understanding of climate change, its impacts, dry conditions of Namibia, and lack of funds for adaptation measures hamper the implementation of policy instruments for climate change adaptation in mopane woodlands. Policymakers and relevant stakeholders should emphasize altering rural communities’ reliance on forest resources for their livelihood by improving their awareness of the impacts of climate change. Future research should evaluate climate change policy instruments’ framework and strategies in the context of forest ecosystems at the rural area level of Namibia.