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African Conservation at Scale

SpeakerS:

Bob Woodruff, Reporter, ABC News
Peter Fearnhead, CEO, African Parks Network
Rob Walton, Chairman of the Board, African Parks Foundation of America

With Core Programming Partner

“We've announced this billion-dollar commitment. We need people to become part of that solution. We can't do it on our own; we need people that are in this audience, that are elsewhere, to be able to get onto that journey with us, to build those partnerships, build those coalitions in order to be able to make it happen.” Peter Fearnhead
“African Parks has a goal of running 30 parks by the end of the decade, and that's where that aspiration is. Those parks are large landscapes; they contain a significant portion of the world's biodiversity, spectacular landscapes, but an important element of it is the benefit to local communities that the security of a well-managed park provides.” Rob Walton
“I must say, this is a topic that you have been doing inside your heart for so long.” Bob Woodruff

Key takeaways:

  • African governments’ commitment to conservation: All African governments have signed up to the Kunming-Montreal Agreement, demonstrating a strong commitment to the 30×30 initiative aimed at protecting 30% of the planet by 2030. The African Parks Network assists governments in achieving these commitments.
  • African Parks network’s role and ambitions: Managing 22 protected areas across 12 countries, the African Parks Network aims to expand its management to 30 parks by the end of the decade. This expansion is crucial for preserving biodiversity and supporting local communities. 
  • Significant financial commitment: The organization has announced a $1 billion commitment to support conservation efforts and help realize the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Agreement. This substantial investment underscores the scale of resources needed for effective conservation.
  • Capacity building and education: There’s a critical need for skilled professionals in conservation. To address this, a new school is being established near Akagera National Park in Rwanda to train individuals in park management, supported by partners like Rob Walton. 
  • Challenges of under-managed protected areas: Approximately two-thirds of key landscapes are not well-managed, posing risks to biodiversity and community wellbeing. Without professional management and local support, these areas may deteriorate or become unsafe. 
  • Importance of collective action: Successful conservation requires collaboration between governments, organizations, and individuals. Building partnerships and coalitions is essential to mobilize resources and expertise.
  • Optimism through success stories: Initiatives like managing the world’s largest wildlife migration in South Sudan and relocating 2,000 southern white rhinos showcase the positive impact of coordinated conservation efforts.

Action items:

  • Support capacity building initiatives: Invest in training programs to develop local expertise in conservation management, such as the new school in Rwanda. 
  • Engage in partnerships: Collaborate with conservation organizations to provide financial, technical, or logistical support for projects aimed at preserving biodiversity. 
  • Raise awareness: Promote lesser-known conservation efforts, like the significant wildlife migrations in South Sudan, to increase global support and attention. 
  • Advocate for sustainable policies: Support policies aligned with global agreements like the Kunming-Montreal Agreement to encourage sustainable practices at all levels. 
  • Focus on under-managed areas: Identify and allocate resources to under-managed protected areas to improve their management and ensure long-term sustainability. 
  • Empower local communities: Work towards ensuring conservation initiatives benefit local populations, enhancing their wellbeing and fostering support for environmental efforts. 
  • Contribute financially: Provide financial support to large-scale conservation commitments, helping organizations meet significant funding goals like the $1 billion pledge.

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