Eco Dialogue Collective: Empowering Media and Civil Society for a Transparent Green Future

01.08.2025

Namibia, though economically stable in the Southern African context, faces critical environmental and social challenges. The nation's primary industries—mining, fishing, agriculture, and eco-tourism—are heavily reliant on natural resources and are thus particularly vulnerable to climate change. Recent oil discoveries and burgeoning green hydrogen initiatives present economic opportunities but underscore a need for robust governance, transparency, and social accountability frameworks to ensure sustainable development and prevent resource-related inequalities.

Significant environmental concerns, such as recurring droughts, desertification, and erratic rainfall patterns, exacerbate socio-economic inequalities, notably impacting Namibia’s rural communities. This project responds to these challenges by bringing together journalists and civil society actors to increase public access to reliable environmental information. By creating collaborative newsrooms, supporting investigative journalism, and enabling open community discussions, the Eco Dialogue Collective strengthens the role of the media in Namibia’s green transition.

The initiative aims to foster a more informed and active citizenry that can hold institutions accountable. It is anticipated that through the project, the media will be better equipped for investigative reporting and advocacy. The project expects to enhance public engagement and improve transparency through community dialogues, national policy conferences and media training programmes. A collaborative newsroom is to be established, reporting on Namibia's green economy and extractive industries. 

Through this effort, a more transparent and participatory environmental future is taking shape.

EU Contribution: €750,000 (Total Budget: €973,500)
Ongoing
Civil Society and Media
Deutsche Welle (DW) Akademie, Namibia Media Trust (NMT), Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR), Legal Assistance Centre (LAC)