No walk in the park: Transboundary cooperation in the Angolan war-torn Okavango

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Okavango region is currently part of a transboundary project extending to three neighboring countries—Angola, Namibia, and Botswana. This article discusses the unequal trajectory and present conditions for such cross-border cooperation, with a particular focus on Angola. Angola’s disadvantageous position is above all due to the lasting effects of war that adversely hindered the development of structures and resources to engage in such joint programs. The central argument is that the inequalities pose particular challenges to the country to accompany the pace of the neighboring countries. The article looks at the fragilities focusing on institutional resources, Angolan policy background, existing dedicated institutions, and human resources, as they are major concerns for post-war reconstruction. On the other hand, it poses questions regarding resilience effects on local level livelihoods and on the future environmental management of the Okavango. This article is based on a literature and documental review and on data from fieldwork where local communities have to rely more heavily on the available natural resources in absence of others.