The EIF is an investment fund, to be set up under the laws of Namibia, with the expressed purpose of raising financial resources for direct investment in environmental protection and natural resource management activities and projects which support the economic development of Namibia. The EIF's ultimate objective is to improve the economic well being of the poorest sectors of society and therefore reduce the possibilities of them pursuing activities that degrade Namibia's fragile environment and waste its natural resources. The Fund would secure long-term financial resources to support activities and programs designed to protect Namibia's fragile environment while contributing to its economic development. It would play an important role in assisting the society to protect its natural resource base while providing economic development and helping to reduce poverty.