Wildlife Policy Implementation Strategy and Elephant Management Plan Unveiled to Combat Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, in collaboration with UNDP, Global Environmental Facility (GEF), and dedicated partners, celebrated a pivotal moment at the 6th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting, culminating in a Gala Dinner unveiling the Wildlife Policy Implementation Strategy and Tanzania Elephant Implementation Plan 2023-2033. This dynamic collaboration has yielded impressive results in the ongoing battle against poaching and illegal wildlife trade.

The UNDP's Combating Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) project, in partnership with the Tanzanian government and GEF support, stands out as a beacon of success in combating poaching. Initiated during a critical period marked by heightened poaching from 2009 to 2013, when Tanzania was labeled one of the "Gang of Eight" by conservationists, the UNDP through its commitment to address challenges has made substantial progress. Since 2014, Tanzania has seen a commendable increase in its elephant population, soaring from 43,330 to an impressive 60,000. Additionally, rhino numbers have exhibited extraordinary growth, surpassing 200.

These milestones are a testament to the collaborative efforts of the government and key institutions under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, including TANAPA, TAWIRI, NCAA, and TAWA. Law enforcement stakeholders such as PCCB, TISS, DPP, and the Police Forces have also played a pivotal role in these accomplishments.

In alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) Planet outcome, UNDP is committed to working hand-in-hand with the Tanzanian government, its partners, and local communities to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This commitment is particularly evident in supporting a greener, more sustainable development path for Tanzania, emphasizing improved access to clean energy and technology to fuel growth and enabling sustainable management of the country's abundant natural resources.

The recent success of the Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) project stands as a testament to the transformative impact achievable through collaborative efforts. The Tanzanian government's dedication, alongside key institutions and law enforcement stakeholders, highlights the effectiveness of international collaboration in preserving wildlife, a crucial component of the SDGs.