04 Feb 2016

The United States and Chinese governments have joined forces to help Botswana combat wildlife trafficking.

Following their two-day tour of the Chobe District to learn more about wildlife conservation issues in Botswana, Ambassadors Earl Miller of the US and Mr Zheng Zhuqiang of China emphasised their commitment to work as part of their nations global efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.

Both ambassadors met with local authorities, representatives of Chobe Enclave communities, and civil society organisations to learn their perspectives and discuss the conservation of Botswana’s unique natural resources.  

The ambassadors emphasised the need for global collaborations to combat this global threat.

“Wildlife trafficking is a concern as it threatens peace and security of nations, destabilises economies, contributes towards spread of diseases,” said Ambassador Miller at a press briefing.

The governments of China and United States have agreed to cooperate on joint training, information sharing, public education to combat wildlife trafficking and enhance international law enforcement.

The collaboration, said Mr Miller, showed commitment by the two governments to put an end to wildlife trafficking, especially that both countries are some of the biggest consumers of ivory products.

Reflecting on the tour, Mr Zheng said it was successful as they got to appreciate wildlife conservation and protection at grassroots level when interacting with the community as part of their tour.

“Before coming here, we had theories but at grassroots level, you get to learn more practically and this has enriched our understanding of wildlife protection,” he noted.

Mr Zheng emphasised that the Chinese government is committed to taking the lead in wildlife protection and enhancing international collaboration.

“We have invested around P16 million worth of goods and equipment towards wildlife protection,” he added.

China, being one of largest consumers of ivory, had taken a decision last February to ban ivory trade for a period of one year.

Ambassador Zhengannounced that China has stopped importing ivory products from Africa and enforces heavy penalties on wildlife traffickers.

The deputy permanent secretary (DPS) in the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism (MEWT), Mr Felix Monggae said that the fact that the two countries are talking about this, acknowledges that there is a crisis and there is need to work together collaboratively.

“This is no longer just about countries hosting these animals, it includes transit and market countries,” he said.  ENDS