Often, poaching becomes the subject of discussion in conservation symposia and other such gatherings by only those directly involved or affected by it. If there is a silent struggle, it is the anti-poaching fight. And therein lies the problem with our approach to this fight. It is only when we are faced with such episodes as the recent killing of 19 elephants by poachers, that we stop to think. However, it is important to think of the fight against poaching as an effort we owe not just this country's natural resources but ourselves as citizens. We therefore take this opportunity to call upon all sectors of society to consider this national challenge. It is crucial that those who are directly involved in this campaign engage with all sectors of our society to not only sensitise them but bring them to understand the importance of partaking in this war. The war against poaching is too important to be left to security forces, conservationists, government officials and wildlife NGOs alone. In light of this latest episode, we implore the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism, the Botswana Police Service and other role players to introspect and review their systems. But most importantly it would help all to wonder why the anti-poaching fight has not been as widely known and indeed regarded as the fight against corruption or HIV/AIDS. It is only when this fight is at the centre of our national discourse that it can be won.
Introducing the Competition Authority column
