African Wildlife Foundation CEO on investing in protected areas

Africa's more than 8,500 protected areas of land and sea cover more than 30 per cent of the continent - an expanse almost the size of Australia and 28 times the size of the UK. These ecosystems play a critical role in climate mitigation and adaptation as global heating wreaks havoc on all fronts. Kaddu Sebunya, CEO of the African Wildlife Foundation, spoke to CNBC Africa to shed light on the importance of sustainable conservation efforts in Africa. Sebunya highlighted the negative impact of colonial legacy on conservation efforts in Africa and the need for a paradigm shift towards more inclusive and community-centric approaches. One of the key themes discussed in the interview was the necessity for African nations to take ownership of their protected areas and invest in sustainable management practices. Sebunya emphasized that while protected areas cover a significant portion of the continent, only 1,000 out of 8,500 have sound management practices. This deficit in financing and effective management poses a threat to the long-term sustainability of these vital ecosystems. Sebunya pointed out that the current average investment in managing protected areas in Africa is only $50 per square kilometer, far below the recommended $1,000 per kilometer for effective management. He stressed the global significance of Africa's biodiversity-rich areas, which are essential for climate regulation and carbon absorption. The responsibility of preserving these areas extends beyond Africa, as they have far-reaching impacts on the entire planet. The interview also touched upon the economic opportunities within the conservation space for the private sector. Sebunya shared insights on how partnerships between the private sector and conservation organizations can drive sustainable economic growth while preserving the environment. He highlighted a project in Rwanda focused on leveraging the economic potential of the Volcanoes National Park through initiatives like a bamboo economy. Sebunya underscored that sustainable conservation efforts must go hand in hand with socioeconomic development for local communities. Key Points: 1. Legacy of Colonialism in Conservation: Sebunya highlighted the negative impact of colonial legacy on conservation practices in Africa, emphasizing the need to shift towards more inclusive and community-driven approaches that empower local populations. 2. Sustainable Management of Protected Areas: With only 1,000 out of 8,500 protected areas in Africa having sound management practices, there is a pressing need for increased investment and effective management to ensure the long-term sustainability of these ecosystems. 3. Private Sector Opportunities in Conservation: Sebunya discussed the potential for the private sector to drive economic growth through investments in conservation initiatives. By aligning economic interests with environmental stewardship, partnerships can create a win-win scenario for both businesses and conservation efforts. In conclusion, Sebunya reiterated the importance of investing in African protected areas not only for the continent's benefit but for the entire planet. The interconnectedness of ecosystems and their role in providing essential services such as water, food security, and climate regulation cannot be overstated. As Africa continues to urbanize and expand, the need to protect and manage these vital natural resources becomes increasingly urgent. By adopting a holistic approach that combines conservation with sustainable development, African nations can pave the way for a brighter and more resilient future.