Setting the Record Straight on Wildlife Conservation and Ecological Justice

By Mwenda Mbaka.

In recent debates about Africa’s natural heritage, certain narratives have emerged that not only misrepresent the facts but also endanger the very ecosystems on which we all depend. In this post, I respond to misleading claims about conservation and global institutions—such as those presented in an open letter published by The Chronicle (see link)—with the aim of clarifying misconceptions, highlighting robust scientific findings, and advocating for genuine, community-driven conservation in Africa.

Challenging the Trophy Hunting Narrative

Claims that trophy hunting serves as a beneficial conservation tool have been challenged by numerous peer-reviewed studies. In reality, the economic benefits of trophy hunting are disproportionately captured by foreign outfitters, corrupt intermediaries, and a select few elites, while local communities often endure ecosystem degradation and increased human–wildlife conflict. Furthermore, targeting the largest and oldest individuals in animal populations disrupts the social structures of species – such as elephants and lions – leaving herds leaderless and more vulnerable to incursions into human settlements. Such disruptions can lead to property destruction, violent conflicts with casualties on both sides, compromised livelihoods, and even the transmission of zoonotic diseases between wildlife and domestic animals (Loveridge et al., 2007)​.

Unmasking the True Drivers of Human – Wildlife Conflict

While some argue that strict hunting bans are responsible for rising human–wildlife conflict, the real culprits lie in habitat destruction and ecosystem fragmentation. Industrial land clearance, the fencing of migratory routes, and unsustainable agricultural expansion are forcing wildlife into closer proximity with human communities. Rather than clinging to outdated models like trophy hunting, our focus should shift toward restoring wildlife corridors, investing in community-based conservation, and promoting sustainable ecotourism (Nyhus, 2016)​.

CITES and International NGOs: Guardians of Biodiversity

Contrary to some criticisms, the conservation frameworks embodied by CITES and the work of international NGOs are grounded in robust scientific evidence. These organizations have generated critical data on the impacts of overfishing, commercial hunting, deforestation, and habitat destruction. Their mission is not driven by profit but by a commitment to protecting Africa’s biodiversity against forces that have historically plundered the continent’s natural wealth for the benefit of a few. Accusing these organizations of ulterior motives – despite the wealth of objectively obtained data published in reputable, peer-reviewed journals – not only insults science but also represents a regressive outlook on the fate of our planet, which urgently calls upon us to change our ways (Hughes et al., 2012)​.

Rejecting Divisive Geopolitical Narratives

Framing conservation as a contest between geopolitical rivals, such as pitting Americans against the Chinese, as seen in the aforementioned open letter, is both divisive and dangerous. At a time when the global community must unite to confront climate change and biodiversity loss, reducing conservation debates to nationalistic battles distracts from the urgent work needed to protect our shared planet. True conservation transcends borders and should be a collaborative, global endeavor.

Africa’s Fight for Ecological Justice

As an African and lifelong advocate for our natural heritage, I believe that our struggle must center on ecological justice. This means confronting the historical exploitation of our water systems, forests, wildlife, and cultural heritage by both foreign and local elites. Instead of aligning with narratives that undermine our struggles, we must demand accountability, seek reparations for ecological debt, and implement policies that safeguard both the environmental and economic well-being of our communities.

Individuals or entities that propagate narratives contributing to Africa’s continued ecological and economic marginalization must reflect on the long-term impact on our continent’s future. Ecological justice is a global imperative that transcends geopolitical boundaries – even though our cultures and races may differ, our shared humanity unites us.

Reflections from the Field

With over 30 years of experience as a veterinarian, and having served as the Animal Welfare Expert for the African Union Inter-Africa Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), I have witnessed firsthand the ecological damage resulting from inadequate environmental governance. The loss of keystone species and the collapse of ecosystem services are not merely theoretical concerns but daily realities affecting millions of Africans. The exploitation of Africa’s natural resources benefits a privileged few while leaving local communities to shoulder the consequences of environmental degradation and economic instability.

Africa has made significant strides in the right direction; for instance, it led the global community to adopt a United Nations Environmental Assembly Resolution recognizing the nexus between animal welfare, the environment, and sustainable development. Recognizing the importance of donkeys for many rural communities across the continent, the African Union ratified a moratorium on the slaughter of donkeys for their skins- a necessary measure in response to an illegal trade that had rendered countless communities destitute by stripping them of their essential means of mobility. For these communities, the donkey is often the only practical means of transportation, to fetch water, reach hospitals, attend school, and access vital supplies. However, some merchants, invoking national sovereignty to justify the exploitation of local resources, pushed back against the efforts of Civil Society Organizations and governments to promote a sustainable utilization of the donkey.This resistance has perpetuated a culture of cross-border theft and slaughter of donkeys, driven by demand in distant markets (Kisilu et al., 2016)​. The resolve that led to the protection of donkeys through the moratorium on its slaughter in Africa  forits skin, should now extend to safeguarding Africa’s wildlife from propagandists whose misinformation undermines our ecosystems.

A Call for Genuine, Community-Driven Conservation

The future of Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems depends on abandoning outdated, exploitative models in favor of scientifically sound, community-based conservation efforts. It is time to align our strategies with approaches championed by organizations such as CITES and other reputable conservation bodies. By focusing on ecological balance, protecting vulnerable communities, and ensuring a sustainable future for all Africans, we can begin to reverse centuries of environmental injustice.

In closing, I urge critics of modern conservation – including the author of the aforementioned open letter – to reconsider their positions. Let us unite in the true fight for environmental justice- a fight that safeguards Africa’s natural wealth for current and future generations.

Dr. Mwenda Mbaka; Veterinarian, Former AU-IBAR Animal Welfare Expert

Selected References