Why Community Support is Important: Reflections from Our Recent Trip to the Caprivi Strip

There’s a special place in the northeastern corner of Namibia, known as the Caprivi Strip, that holds my heart. For me, this lush, water-rich region is more than just a breathtaking landscape; it’s my favorite place on earth. With its majestic rivers, large ancient trees, and abundant wildlife, the Caprivi feels like a world apart from the rest of Namibia’s arid lands. But as beautiful as it is, this paradise is also facing serious challenges, like many other parts of southern Africa, including Zambia and Zimbabwe.

During our recent visit to the Caprivi, I was reminded of the vital importance of community support and why it’s at the core of everything we do at Natura Africa. The region, like much of southern Africa, is experiencing a severe drought that is pushing local communities to the brink. Families are struggling to find enough water, crops are failing, and the wildlife is suffering alongside the people. Despite the lush appearance of the Caprivi, life here is not easy, and the drought is taking a heavy toll.

However, amid these hardships, I was inspired by the resilience of the people and their unwavering commitment to their communities. One of the ways we try to support them is by sourcing natural ingredients like Marula, Kalahari Melon and Manketti oils directly from local suppliers. Selling these nuts for cosmetic oil production has become a lifeline for many families, providing them with much-needed extra income during these difficult times.

Meeting the people who gather and sell these nuts was a humbling experience. They shared their stories of how this work has helped them put food on the table and keep their children in school. It’s more than just a transaction for us—it’s about building relationships and understanding that our choices have a real impact on people’s lives.

The Caprivi Strip is rich in natural beauty, but its greatest wealth lies in its people. They are the custodians of this land, and their knowledge of the environment is invaluable. Supporting them goes beyond business; it’s about empowering communities, preserving traditional knowledge, and ensuring that the benefits of natural resources are shared equitably.

Standing under the vast canopy of a centuries-old baobab tree, looking out over the shimmering waters of the Zambezi, I was filled with a renewed sense of purpose. This place, with its beauty and its challenges, reminds me why community support matters so much. It’s a reminder that every bottle of oil we sell represents more than just a product—it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the possibility of a better future for the communities that make it possible.

As we continue our work, we remain committed to sourcing ethically, supporting local communities, and protecting the natural treasures of the Caprivi Strip and beyond. It’s not just good for business; it’s the right thing to do. For us, it’s about giving back to the land and the people who make our work possible. From Africa, for Africa—because we believe that when we lift each other up, we all thrive.

Join us in supporting these incredible communities, and let’s make a difference together.