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Tracing the money, not just the horn

Friday, June 20, 2025 | 480 Views |

Khama Rhino Sanctuary.PIC.KENNEDY RAMOKONE

According to data from Statistics Botswana, over P200 billion (approximately USD 2 billion) has been lost to wildlife smuggling over the past five years.

A substantial portion of these funds is allegedly linked to organised wildlife trafficking, particularly rhino horn smuggling.

Experts warn that this financial haemorrhaging is not only undermining Botswana’s ability to protect its wildlife but is also crippling the country’s capacity to finance essential public services.

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Tracing the money, not just the horn

According to data from Statistics Botswana, over P200 billion (approximately USD 2 billion) has been lost to wildlife smuggling over the past five years.