Investment in wildlife biodiversity could tilt the scales for Africa

Conservation of wildlife was among the key focal points at this year’s Africa Climate Summit with global leaders converging to chart out a way forward to step up funding programs towards saving Africa’s rich wildlife. The existential threat to wildlife populations remains worrying on the continent. CNBC Africa’s Aby Agina spoke to the Chief Executive Officer for International Fund for Animal Welfare, Azzedine Downes, to delve into the challenges and potential solutions for wildlife conservation in Africa. When discussing the conservation efforts at the summit, Downes emphasized that while it's a positive step to see nature as a theme, there is still a lack of focus on wildlife and biodiversity. He raised concerns about the limited discussions specifically dedicated to nature and wildlife out of the numerous side events at the summit. Downes pointed out the critical importance of financing the protection of what has not yet been lost in terms of wildlife and biodiversity in Africa, instead of solely focusing on restoring what has already been lost. He argued for a shift towards recognizing and financing the inherent value of Africa's biodiversity through innovative approaches such as biodiversity credits and debt swaps for nature. Downes addressed the controversial nature of carbon markets in Africa and stressed the need for financing based on the wealth of Africa's natural heritage. The issue of nature-based solutions facing opposition at the summit was highlighted as a major challenge for Africa, which possesses one of the richest wildlife heritages in the world. On the topic of balancing wildlife conservation with rapid urbanization in Africa, Downes emphasized the importance of fostering a willingness to share the planet and the space with wildlife among local communities. He underscored the significance of involving people who live alongside wildlife in conservation discussions and decision-making processes. Downes acknowledged the impact of the pandemic on conservation financing but expressed optimism about a shift in perspectives and approaches towards funding conservation efforts in Africa. He mentioned engaging with investors and the private sector to direct funding towards protecting Africa's wildlife and biodiversity. Downes called for a shift from a victim mentality to recognizing the wealth that Africa holds in its natural resources. Looking ahead, he emphasized the need for Africa to focus on leveraging its biodiversity and wildlife wealth for conservation efforts rather than dwelling on loss and damage. In conclusion, the pathway for wildlife conservation in Africa lies in shifting the narrative towards investing in the continent's rich biodiversity as a valuable asset.