H.E Duma Boko, President of the Republic of Botswana (centre) with dignitaries from various African countries of during the closing ceremony of the African Biodiversity Summit.PHOTO; Courtesy
The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) has pledged $30 million annually to strengthen conservation across Africa, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding the continent’s wildlife, ecosystems, and natural heritage.
The investment aligns with the African Union’s Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan and highlights AWF’s people-centered approach, which combines science, policy, and local engagement to ensure sustainable conservation outcomes.
The funding will expand AWF’s on-the-ground initiatives, bolster community-led programs, and support policy implementation at national and regional levels.
The organization emphasized that protecting biodiversity is not only vital for Africa’s environmental future but also underpins economic growth, climate resilience, and cultural identity.
“Africa’s biodiversity is not only our natural wealth but is fundamental to our future,” said Kaddu Sebunya, AWF Chief Executive Officer, during a Heads of State Reception at the closing session of the Africa Biodiversity Summit.
“The protection and sustainable management of our ecosystems is non-negotiable for achieving a prosperous, peaceful, and sustainable Africa. AWF is proud to align our work with continental frameworks to ensure our collective success.”
AWF implements its conservation strategy across 14 priority landscapes and critical protected areas, spanning East Africa’s savannas, the forests of the Congo Basin, and wildlife corridors in Southern Africa.
This landscape-based model ensures ecological connectivity, protects habitats and wildlife populations, and empowers local communities as key stewards of conservation.
The organization said its annual investment will support several priority areas:
• Protection and management of critical ecosystems and protected areas
• Community-led conservation initiatives linking biodiversity protection with sustainable livelihoods
• Combating wildlife crime and illegal trafficking
• Building the capacity of African conservation professionals and institutions
• Elevating African leadership in conservation, including mentoring African youth
• Advancing climate-smart conservation solutions
• Supporting policy development and implementation at national and regional levels
As the secretariat of the Africa Protected Areas Directors (APAD) network, AWF facilitates knowledge exchange and promotes best practices among member countries.
The organization highlighted the importance of partnerships with African governments, the African Union, local communities, and the private sector to scale its conservation impact.
“Africa’s biodiversity is Africa’s responsibility and Africa’s opportunity,” Sebunya said.
“AWF stands ready to work hand-in-hand with all stakeholders to ensure that our continent’s natural wealth continues to thrive, supporting both people and wildlife for generations to come. Together, we can safeguard a biodiverse, resilient, and prosperous Africa.”
The announcement coincides with a growing recognition across African countries that biodiversity is central to national development, tourism, agriculture, and climate adaptation.
AWF’s investment will complement these efforts, reinforcing the continent’s capacity to manage ecosystems sustainably while promoting economic and social benefits.
Through this multi-pronged approach, AWF positions itself as a key driver of conservation in Africa, demonstrating that protecting wildlife and wildlands is inseparable from supporting communities, strengthening governance, and fostering resilient landscapes that benefit both people and nature.
About the African Wildlife Foundation
The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) is the primary advocate for the protection of wildlife and wildlands, recognizing them as essential to a modern and prosperous Africa.
Founded in 1961 to focus on Africa’s conservation needs, we articulate a uniquely African vision, bridge science and public policy, and demonstrate the benefits of conservation to ensure the survival of the continent’s wildlife and wild lands.
