Okavango Delta Management Plan - Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

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5 MANAGEMENT PLAN AND IMPLEMENTATION
STRATEGY
The implementation strategy is guided by the common and shared vision of the
<strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong> <strong>Ramsar</strong> Site. The vision is designed to provide guidance to policy
development and execution of the various sector programmes that bring
sustainability to the <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong> <strong>Ramsar</strong> site. Moreover, it is designed to help
inform the Government and its partners of the stakeholder priorities for future
action and provide a common focus and direction for the diverse stakeholders
utilising and managing the natural resources within the <strong>Ramsar</strong> site (ODMP –
<strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong> <strong>Ramsar</strong> Site
Common Vision for 2016,
2006).
A set of parameters has been
developed to provide the
context for future actions in
the wise use and management
of the ODRS. These are largely
premised on the values shown
in Box 1 which support the
common and shared vision.
The parameters are in the form
of management strategies,
zoning, prescriptions and
action plans (projects).
5.1 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Box 1: Vision and values of the ODRS
These implementation strategies provide the framework for achieving the seven
strategic objectives linked to the realization of the vision (ODMP – <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong>
<strong>Ramsar</strong> Site Common Vision for 2016, 2006) and discussed also in Section 4.2. The
objectives are given in Box 2.
Strategic objectives
To establish viable management institutions for the sustainable management of the <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong>
To improve the planning and regulatory framework for sustainable management of the <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong>.
To raise public awareness, enhance knowledge and create a platform for information exchange and learning about the <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong>.
To conserve the biotic and abiotic functions of the <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong>, and the interactions between them.
To maintain or restore the wetland habitats and ecosystems of the <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong>.
To sustainably use the wetland resources of the <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong> for the long-term benefit of all stakeholders
To develop socio-economic opportunities to improve livelihoods of the <strong>Okavango</strong> <strong>Delta</strong> stakeholders.
Box 2: Strategic objectives
VISION:
A carefully managed, well functioning ecosystem that equitably and sustainably
provides benefits for local, national and international stakeholders”
VALUES
Maintained as a clean and beautiful place to all local and national people, and
visitors
Maintained as a wilderness area of national and international importance for its
biodiversity, geological, social and cultural significance
Developed and managed as a flagship tourism asset, shaped and stewarded by
sustainable tourism that provides active engagement of native citizen entrepreneurs,
rewarding employment to local people and sustained revenue to the treasury.
An area with dynamic, responsible and vibrant communities whose members have
secure and sustainable livelihoods, and enjoy a high quality of life.
Valued and understood by all those who live in, work in, or visit, so that they
contribute positively to the shaping of the future.
A wisely used area, where there is fair access to natural resources, equitable
distribution and sharing of benefits derived from the <strong>Delta</strong> from livelihoods of current
and future generations.