East Africa is endowed with a wealth of biodiversity and natural resources, including some of the most spectacular wildlife and ecosystems in the world. When managed well and equitably, these vast yet fragile lands contribute significantly to national and regional economies and improve the lives of local communities.
The pressure of growing human populations, changing weather patterns, rampant wildlife poaching and trafficking across porous borders, and disjointed management of shared natural resources threatens East Africa’s conservation efforts. Habitats in East Africa cross political boundaries, thus it is critical for nations to work together on the survival of wildlife and the habitats they depend on. A regional effort is needed to address national‐ level problems that are exacerbating the decline in wildlife populations and habitat loss.
