Conservation Ngos Race To Fill Us Funding Gaps

Conservation non-governmental organisations NGOs have turned their attention towards the creation of innovative funding mechanisms and stronger partnerships with donors and tourism partners as they seek to fill the funding gaps left by halted US government support.

US President Donald Trumps January 20 announcement of a 90-day pause on all foreign development assistance had wide-ranging impacts on Africas biodiversity protection and socio-economic development initiatives.

Kish Chetty , Head of Sustainability at the Endangered Wildlife Trust EWT, said the illegal wildlife trade is of particular concern.

The withdrawal of global funding and reduced international commitment to combating this crisis will weaken enforcement, anti-poaching efforts and community-based conservation initiatives, making it easier for trafficking syndicates to operate.

Chetty told Tourism Update there is strong recognition by the organisations partners, along with donors, of the urgency to source alternative funding.