The future of the African elephant remains uncertain
THE AFRICAN elephant is by far the most recognised and arguably the most beloved creature on our continent, but its numbers are declining and its future remains uncertain.
For this reason the UN has placed the pachyderm and its Asian counterpart at the top of its campaign in celebrating World Wildlife day on Thursday.
“The future of wildlife is in our hands,” is the battle cry of the UN and signatory nations in celebrating the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Cites) that came into existence on March 3, 1974.
On December 20, 2013, at its 68th session, the UN General Assembly decided to proclaim March 3 World Wildlife Day, with the aim of reversing the damage done by man in his pursuit of progress and profit.
Poaching and trafficking in wildlife further reduces the chances of survival of endangered species, particularly iconic species. Precious trees and plants sought for every- thing from furniture to traditional medicine are also under pressure.
“While we are seeing positive progress to tackle illicit wildlife trafficking, more needs to be done by all of us. On this World Wildlife Day, we hope to see even more commitments coming from countries and citizens around the world,” the UN said in a statement.
Over the next four weeks the Sunday Tribune will focus on success stories in our province in which threats to species have been met head-on by conservationists and ordinary citizens.
We will look at some of the challenges that exist when there are competing needs between communities.
terry.vdwalt@inl.co.za