namibia
Politicians and businesses meet in Namibia to discuss hydrogen's role in green energy
African leaders and international investors are gathering in Namibia to explore hydrogen's potential in driving the continent’s green energy future, despite challenges related to cost and infrastructure.
In short:
- Namibia's three-day summit aims to attract investment in hydrogen, positioning it as a key player in Africa's green industrial revolution.
- Green hydrogen, though promising, remains costly and currently represents less than 1% of global production.
- Expanding renewable energy sources and infrastructure is crucial for hydrogen to become a viable fossil fuel alternative.
Why this matters:
Hydrogen could significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels, but its high production costs and the need for new infrastructure pose significant challenges.
Namibia to slaughter elephants and zebras due to drought
Namibia plans to cull more than 700 animals, including elephants and hippos, to provide meat for people facing severe food insecurity during the country’s worst drought in a century.
In short:
- Namibia will cull 83 elephants, 30 hippos and other animals, distributing the meat to drought-stricken communities.
- The drought, caused by El Niño, has left nearly half of Namibia’s population facing acute food insecurity.
- The cull also aims to reduce human-wildlife conflict and alleviate pressure on natural resources.
Key quote:
“We are happy that we can assist the country in this very difficult time and when [it’s] absolutely needed.”
— Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism
Why this matters:
The drought in Namibia is a stark example of how climate change exacerbates natural disasters, leading to extreme measures like wildlife culls to prevent human starvation and manage ecosystems.
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