On Monday, President Duma Boko joined African leaders, philanthropists, and key stakeholders in New York City for the launch of the African Keynote Protected Area Partnership, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at safeguarding Africa’s biodiversity, protecting vital ecosystems, and supporting millions of livelihoods dependent on natural resources. The partnership represents a major step in continental efforts to address environmental challenges while promoting sustainable economic growth.
During his closing remarks, President Boko announced that Botswana will host the Africa Biodiversity Summit from November 2–5, 2025. He extended an open invitation to leaders and delegates, stating, “I hope when we next meet, it will be at the biodiversity summit in Botswana. I look forward to welcoming all of you, and many more, to Gaborone.” Co-hosted by the African Union and the Government of Botswana, the summit will convene under the theme: “Leveraging Africa’s Biodiversity for Prosperity,” highlighting the continent’s commitment to integrating ecological preservation with economic development. The announcement has already attracted global attention, including support from philanthropist and conservation advocate Rob Walton.
The summit week in Gaborone is expected to draw African leaders, conservation experts, and international delegates, all seeking innovative solutions and partnerships to strengthen biodiversity protection and sustainable resource management. At the New York launch, Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, Daniel Chapo of Mozambique, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Namibia, and President Boko emphasized that conservation is both an ecological necessity and a driver of economic opportunity, positioning Africa as a leader in global sustainability efforts.
Highlighting Botswana’s role in conservation, President Boko noted the country’s achievement in surpassing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework target of conserving 30 percent of land, with over 40 percent of Botswana’s territory currently dedicated to conservation. He stressed the importance of community engagement, citing Botswana’s Community-Based Natural Resources Management (CBNRM) Programme: “We have entrusted our communities not only to manage the land but also to benefit from tourism revenues, thereby improving livelihoods. This is not just conservation, it is transformation.”
The launch of the African Keynote Protected Area Partnership and the announcement of the Africa Biodiversity Summit underscore Botswana’s leadership in conservation and Africa’s growing role in shaping global environmental agendas. By combining community stewardship, innovative policy, and international collaboration, the initiatives aim to ensure that Africa’s biodiversity continues to thrive while supporting sustainable development for generations to come.
