In a decisive move to protect the country’s rich wildlife heritage, Minister of Environment and Tourism Wynter Molotsi has unveiled a robust five-year anti-poaching strategy that prioritizes stronger law enforcement collaboration and deeper community involvement.
Molotsi described the strategy as a vital framework for ensuring the long-term conservation and sustainability of biodiversity. Speaking at the official launch, he emphasized its significance not only for the protection of iconic wildlife species but also for the national economy and the wellbeing of future generations.
“Our biodiversity is one of our greatest national assets,” Molotsi stated. “Protecting it is not just an environmental obligation but a moral and economic necessity. This strategy is our collective commitment to act now and secure a future where both people and nature can thrive.”
The country is home to the world’s largest population of African elephants and has long been regarded as a conservation leader on the African continent. However, increasing global concern over wildlife decline due to poaching, habitat degradation, and escalating human-wildlife conflict has underscored the urgency for more coordinated and strategic efforts.
The newly launched strategy outlines key pillars focused on:
- Enhanced Multi-Agency Coordination: Government agencies, wildlife authorities, and security forces will work in tandem to streamline operations, share intelligence, and strengthen patrol efforts across conservation zones.
- Community Empowerment and Education: Local communities will be engaged as active stakeholders through education programs, employment opportunities in conservation, and support for community-led wildlife protection initiatives.
- Strengthening Legal Frameworks: The strategy includes measures to bolster the legal prosecution of wildlife crimes, increase penalties for offenders, and close loopholes in existing legislation.
- Technological Integration: Modern surveillance tools such as drones, camera traps, and satellite monitoring will be deployed to enhance tracking and deter poaching activities.
- Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration with civil society organisations, NGOs, and international partners will ensure sustainable financing and global expertise to support anti-poaching measures.
Environmental experts have praised the plan as a timely and comprehensive approach, noting that successful wildlife protection must be grounded in inclusive and collaborative efforts that align ecological needs with human development goals.
Molotsi’s strategy reflects a broader continental push for integrated conservation practices, as African nations face mounting pressure from international watchdogs and climate-related threats. With this bold new roadmap, the country not only reinforces its conservation leadership but also sets a strong example for how policy, community, and innovation can come together to preserve nature for future generations.
