In a significant move towards the protection of Botswana’s wildlife, the Minister of Environment and Tourism, Hon. Wynter Mmolotsi, recently launched the 2025-2030 National Anti-Poaching Strategy in Gaborone. This strategy marks a bold and proactive step in the fight against poaching, which threatens the nation’s biodiversity and the delicate balance of its ecosystems.
The National Anti-Poaching Strategy is a comprehensive framework designed to combat illegal wildlife trade and poaching activities. It aims to strengthen collaboration across various sectors, involving government law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, and local communities. By fostering cooperation between these key stakeholders, the strategy aims to create a united front against poaching and its associated crimes.
Hon. Mmolotsi highlighted that the cornerstone of the strategy’s success lies in the collaboration of law enforcement agencies. He emphasized that effective coordination and information sharing among these agencies are vital in curbing poaching activities and ensuring the safety of wildlife. The Minister reiterated the importance of a collective approach, stating that no single entity can tackle the problem alone.
The strategy sets out clear goals for the next five years, focusing on improving surveillance, strengthening legal frameworks, and enhancing the capacity of those involved in wildlife conservation and enforcement. It also calls for greater involvement from local communities, recognizing that their participation is crucial in identifying and reporting poaching activities, as well as in ensuring that conservation efforts are sustainable.
Hon. Mmolotsi’s launch of the National Anti-Poaching Strategy is a call to action for all sectors of society to unite in the fight against poaching. By working together, Botswana aims to protect its unique wildlife heritage and ensure a future where wildlife thrives for generations to come.
