Botswana’s Tourism Minister, Philda Kereng, has revealed that there has been a sharp rise in the poaching of rhinos in the country. The announcement was made on Monday during a press conference held in Gaborone, the capital city.
According to Minister Kereng, the increase in poaching incidents is a cause for concern and action must be taken to address the problem. The minister attributed the increase in poaching to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to economic challenges and job losses, making poaching a lucrative source of income for some individuals.
She added that the government is implementing various measures to curb the poaching of rhinos, including increasing patrols and surveillance in rhino habitats, increasing penalties for poaching, and working with neighbouring countries to tackle the issue.
“Poaching of rhinos not only threatens the survival of these magnificent creatures but also undermines our conservation efforts and the tourism industry, which is a major contributor to our economy,” said Minister Kereng.
Botswana is home to a significant population of rhinos, According to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), Botswana has a total of 285 white rhinos and 23 black rhinos left. The government has implemented measures to protect rhinos and other endangered species, including the use of drones to monitor wildlife, and the creation of anti-poaching units.
However, the recent increase in poaching incidents has highlighted the need for more robust measures to protect rhinos and other endangered species in the country.
The Minister urged the public to report any suspicious activities or information related to poaching to the authorities, emphasizing that everyone has a role to play in protecting Botswana’s wildlife.
The government’s efforts to protect rhinos and other wildlife have also received support from various organizations, including the World Wildlife Fund and the International Rhino Foundation.
The rise in poaching incidents in Botswana is a cause for concern, and the government is working tirelessly to address the issue. With concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including the public, it is hoped that the country’s rhino population can be safeguarded for future generations.