The workshop aims at exchanging ideas on how to tackle the escalating problem of illegal harvesting and trade in wildlife in the SADC region and agree on practical solutions towards addressing this challenge.
Delivering his keynote address, His Excellency the President of The Republic of Botswana, Lieutenant General Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, and Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) informed SADC Ministers responsible for Environment and Natural Resources and other stakeholders that illegal trade in wildlife has a potential to wipeout the endangered species of fauna and flora.
The Chairperson highlighted that SADC region houses the largest population of highly sought after species particularly elephants and rhinos. “The elephants, rhinos, pangolins are being killed in large numbers to meet rising international demand for commodities such as ivory, rhino horn, scales and meat” President Khama noted.
SADC Executive Secretary, Her Excellency Dr. Stergomena Lawrence Tax in her introductory opening remarks explained that the workshop is expected to come up with innovative and practical solutions to combat illegal killing and trade in wildlife and wildlife products that deprives the region benefits from wildlife resources of fauna and flora.
The workshop closes this evening and outcomes of the workshop, will be shared.
