The challenge is capital and skills. As grant funding diminishes, conservancies that can become more self-sustaining have a better chance of implementing this virtuous cycle.
To this end we are in the process of working with the director of the conservancy and WWF in Namibia to create and implement an economic development model that will sustain both economic growth and cultural and ecological conservation. So, we are proposing a perpetual small business fund with the following goals in mind.
50% to 60% success rate (Wheeler, 2004).
Business to pilot the program. Let us tell you what is so appropriate about this business.
Make sure to mention that this is next to the White Lady Lodge – will negotiate this in June. We like this idea because it is an example of sustaining traditional way of life through location.
In our mentoring relationship we have helped him with his market analysis. Emphasize that this is still Lanny’s plan with a bit of mentoring. The fundamental ideas come from him. We are just helping him tighten up the plan. It is not a post-colonial colonialism.
We have confirmed this information through secondary sources.
Again, basically Lanny’s material with some analysis and suggestions on our part such as entrance fees. Emphasis on start up costs – rakes, shovels, truck rental to haul material, food for workers, etc…
Average monthly income is $100 so we are talking about moving from $1,200 per year to $4,500 per year even with the profit repatriation to the conservation fund.
Transition – but we need to remember that this model of economic self-reliance is meant to have a larger impact through the Conservancy – move back up one level.
Some form of profit sharing can lead to these outcomes. Now, we just need to have a financial scheme in place that will allow that pot of money to exist.
Develop economic community by funding additional business start ups
Issues of economic self-reliance. This becomes an issue of for Africans by Africans as we pull the initial investment out. Now, the capital is coming from internal sources as well as much of the expertise. Mentoring is an issue but the goal is to try to have the local business owners share their knowledge with one another and new entrepreneurs.
Challenge may be finding sufficient businesses like Lanny’s with great returns that allows for sustainability. A four to five year time period makes sense due to a 50% to 60% success rate. This allows for contribution to conservation and community programs as well as further economic development.