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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 24277, member: 2262"] Tourism Company Says Mining Threatens N$12 Million Wildlife Project. Ultimate Safaris reports that mining plans have halted their N$30 million rhino camp project in Namibia's Kunene region. The delay threatens local jobs and conservation income. Company spokesperson David Bishop said the four-suite camp would create 25 jobs. The project secured funding and permits but faces uncertainty from nearby mining claims. The firm paid N$3 million to local conservancies and authorities in 2024. It spent N$6 million on staff wages and N$1.6 million on community programs. The company funds rhino protection in the area. Legal battles continue between Ultimate Safaris, local conservancies, and mining groups. The dispute centers on mining rights in the Sorris Sorris Conservancy. The competition commission ordered Ultimate Safaris to end deals with three conservancies in January. Officials said these agreements blocked other tourism businesses. Mining claims holder Timoteus Mashuna filed the complaint. Bishop listed company investments, including new boreholes, solar systems, and wildlife water points. CEO Tristan Cowley praised strong tourism growth despite mining threats. A High Court judge blocked mining in the rhino habitat last December. Earlier, environmental officials had approved mining plans despite objections. The tourism project sought funding from conservation groups backed by international aid. The company improved tourist routes and signs in the region. Bishop said mining supporters tried to pressure tourism operators through complaints. He warned these actions threaten successful wildlife programs that support rural communities. [/QUOTE]

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