231005002229 - Application for an Environmental Clearence Certificate for Okarundu Camping and Rest Camp, Erongo Region.

Okarundu is located approximately 30km south-east of Otjimbingwe and roughly 50 directly south of Karibib in the Erongo Region. The area is found in the Otjimbingwe communal area and is under the customary jurisdiction of the Tsoaxudaman Traditional Authority. Otjimbingwe has approximately 8,000 inhabitants, the area was already a temporary settlement of some Herero in the early 18th century. Chief Tjiponda coined the name Otjizingue (Otjiherero: refreshing place, referring to the natural spring) from which the settlement's name developed. The Rhenish church in the settlement's centre is one the settlement's main attractions. Constructed in 1867 and proclaimed a National Monument in 1974 it is Namibia's oldest church. Another proclaimed National Monument is the Pulverturm (armory tower) erected in 1870. In order to tap into the rich history and tourism character of Otjimbingwe while at the same time providing the residents of the settlement and nearby communities with recreational amenities, Okarundu Camping and Rest Camp, hereinafter known as the proponent, has applied and obtained approval from the Tsoaxudaman Traditional Authority as well as from the Namibia Tourism Board for the establishment and operation of a multi-purpose camping and rest camp. The facilities are already in existence and have been operational, however, the proponent realised the need to be environmentally compliant and has commissioned the process of obtaining an Environmental Clearance Certificate (ECC) for the operations. The proponent appointed Environam Consultants Trading cc (ECT) to undertake the process of obtaining an ECC for the activity