Dlamini Zuma calls for an integrated approach to dealing with illegal poaching

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia - 30 July, 2014: "Our police, immigration, judiciary, defense forces and others must assist the game rangers and forest guards in combating illegal poaching in our countries." Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, African Union Commission Chairperson calls for the an integrated approach to fight against illegal poaching during a meeting with Congolese Minister of Sustainable Development and Forest Economy, Mr. Henri Djombo.

The Minister had come to brief the Chairperson on an upcoming international conference on illegal poaching, as approved by the Heads of State and Government during the 23rd AU Malabo Summit. Scheduled to take place in 2015, the Minister highlighted the need for a national to regional strategy, and the necessary resources for its effective implementation.

Concurring with the Minister on the need for urgent and concerted strategy, the AUC Chairperson noted that any agreed strategy must be inward-looking to curb the supply side, as well as outward looking to raise awareness and lobby with end-user countries to curtail the demand.

They had a common understanding on the need to identify the entire value chain of poaching, and raising the needed resources locally, before seeking international support.

"These are the issues we must look at, and propose to the Heads of State and Government. Our patrimony is now the world's heritage. We need the support of the international community to protect it." Dr. Dlamini Zuma said.

Under the leadership of Congolese President Denis Sasou Nguesou, the strategic conference is being planned by UNEP, AfDB, AUC, WWF and other international NGOs.