Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-03-18 08:35:20
A group of 50 high-profile environmental conservationists, led by Dr. Paula Kahumbu, recently penned a letter protesting Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu’s decision to issue four new trophy-hunting licenses. The letter, written on Saturday, March 16, called for an immediate ban on trophy-hunting targeting elephants with tusks, citing the endangerment of these wild animals.
The conservationists argued that it was crucial for the Tanzanian government to collaborate with its Kenyan counterpart, as the wild animals lived along the border. They called for formal regulations to ban the hunting of elephants in specified areas such as the Enduimet Wildlife Management Area, Narco Ranch, Longido GCA, Lake Natron East GCA, and Lake Natron North GCA.
The collaboration between the two countries aims to establish alternative conservation strategies that ensure the protection of Amboseli elephants, preserving them as a shared heritage and a testament to the collective commitment to conservation. The conservationists emphasized the importance of maintaining the genetic propensity for large tusks in the elephant population, as it is a major draw for tourism in both Tanzania and Kenya.
The letter, which was published on Avaaz, has garnered over 6,000 signatures and is close to reaching its target of 7,500 signatures. The conservationists pointed out the threat posed to the Amboseli elephants by the issuance of new hunting licenses, which disrupt a 30-year-old agreement crucial for their protection. They highlighted the significance of the males in their reproductive prime being targeted for hunting, as their tusks symbolize their grandeur and are essential for tourism.
In Kenya, the elephant population has shown improvement, with 36,280 elephants recorded by the Kenya Wildlife Service. This marks a 21% increase from 2014 when poaching was at its peak. The growth has been attributed to a sustained crackdown on poaching and illegal ivory trade. Tanzania also reported an increase in its elephant population, from 43,000 in 2014 to 60,000 elephants, according to the Africa Wildlife Foundation.
The conservationists’ appeal for the ban on elephant trophy hunting within the Amboseli elephants’ range underscores the urgent need to protect these majestic creatures and preserve their habitat. By raising awareness and garnering support from the global community, they hope to compel both governments to take decisive action in safeguarding the future of the endangered elephant population.
In conclusion, the conservationists’ efforts reflect a shared commitment to conservation and the preservation of biodiversity, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices that protect wildlife for generations to come.
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