Joseph Isangura
Tanzania has officially taken over the presidency of the Lusaka Agreement Governing Council, a continental body dedicated to combating wildlife crime across Africa.
The leadership transition was confirmed at the council’s 14th meeting, which is currently being held in Arusha.
Tanzania’s Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, Dr. Pindi Chana, made the announcement during a press briefing, noting that the country will chair the council for the next two years. The position was previously held by Kenya.
“This is a moment of pride and responsibility,” said Dr. Chana. “We are committed to intensifying collaborative efforts to end poaching and protect our shared heritage.”
Established in 1994, the Lusaka Agreement promotes cross-border cooperation in the fight against illegal wildlife trade, especially in high-value species like elephants, rhinos, and protected timber species. The agreement facilitates joint enforcement among its signatories, which include Zambia, Lesotho, Liberia, Republic of the Congo, and Kenya.
Tanzania joined the agreement in 1999 and has since been an active contributor through its participation in regional operations coordinated by the Lusaka Agreement Task Force (LATF). The last council meeting was held in Zambia in March 2022.
As part of the new leadership, Tanzania will oversee implementation of the 2025–2030 strategic plan to address wildlife crimes, ranging from bushmeat trafficking to the smuggling of ivory and pangolins.
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“This chairmanship gives us a chance to advocate for stronger legal frameworks and enhanced community-based conservation,” Dr. Chana added, highlighting Tanzania’s success in reducing poaching in areas like the Selous Game Reserve and Serengeti.
Despite global awareness, the illegal wildlife trade remains a multibillion-dollar industry that threatens not only biodiversity but also regional stability. Conservation experts have long warned that trafficking networks are becoming more sophisticated and often linked to organized crime.
Tanzania’s presidency is expected to bring renewed focus on the importance of wildlife as a pillar of African economies, ecosystems, and identities. The country is also pushing for technology-driven solutions like drone surveillance, forensic labs, and data sharing among enforcement agencies.
“This is not just about animals,” said Dr. Chana. “It’s about sovereignty, sustainability, and the soul of Africa.”
The leadership role also positions Tanzania as a continental voice in international forums on conservation and sustainable development. Officials say one of the priorities will be empowering local communities to see wildlife protection as an opportunity, not a burden.
