KAZA SUMMIT IN ZAMBIA:TRANSNATIONAL CONSERVATION EFFORTS
SIMPLIFIER
1. What is the KAZA-TFCA?
The Kavango-Zambezi (KAZA) Trans-Frontier Conservation Area (TFCA) is the world’s largest transnational conservation initiative, spanning 520,000 square kilometers across Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It aims to conserve biodiversity and promote nature-based tourism for economic growth.
2. What is the purpose of the KAZA Summit?
The KAZA Summit, held in Livingstone, Zambia, gathers delegates to review progress, strategize future conservation efforts, and reaffirm political commitment to the KAZA initiative.
3. What are the key objectives of the summit?
• Assess the progress of the KAZA-TFCA since its inception.
• Review the implementation of the KAZA Treaty and the Memorandum of Understanding.
• Obtain renewed commitment from member countries for regional cooperation and integration.
4. What issues are being discussed at the summit?
• Managing elephant overpopulation and the impacts of Western laws banning the importation of hunting trophies.
• The refusal by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to allow trade in elephant products.
• The effect of climate change and severe droughts on the region’s conservation efforts.
5. What progress has been made in KAZA?
The KAZA region houses the largest elephant population, with a stable population of nearly 230,000 elephants according to a 2022 census. Approximately 70% of KAZA land is under conservation, including 103 wildlife management areas and 85 forest reserves, along with three World Heritage sites: Victoria Falls, Okavango Delta, and Tsodilo Hills.
6. What are the anticipated outcomes of the summit?
The summit aims to solidify the commitment of the heads of state from the member countries to make KAZA the best-managed conservation area globally and ensure the communities benefit from wildlife management.
7. Who are the key participants in the summit?
Delegates include officials from Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, along with wildlife, conservation, and tourism experts.
8. What role does political commitment play in the KAZA initiative?
Political commitment is crucial for regional cooperation and the successful implementation of conservation strategies. High-level support ensures the allocation of resources and effective management of the conservation area.
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