Four African states want CITES to ban elephant hunting in Botswana
Friday, September 23, 2022 | 1600 Views |
Rising numbers: The local population is estimated to be “stable and growing” PIC: MBONGENI MGUNI
The four countries, situated in western Africa, want the upcoming meeting of CITES scheduled for November in Panama to upgrade elephants in Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe from Appendix II to Appendix I, the highest level category for endangered species where no trade is allowed.
Botswana resumed hunting activities, including elephants, in 2019, after a five-year moratorium.
“I believe that free but fair trade isan absolute imperative”– John E. JamesFor two countries bound by geography, history and deep economic ties, periods of diplomatic strain serve neither side well. President Duma Boko’s efforts to restore momentum to relations with Pretoria deserve recognition, particularly at a time when Southern Africa faces shared challenges ranging from sluggish economic growth and unemployment to energy security...