Ministry of Natural Resources and tourism, UNDP, Global Environmental Facility (GEF) and in partnership with its dedicated partners, proudly held the successful convening of its 6th Project Steering Committee (PSC) meeting, which was followed with Gala Dinner to launch the Wildlife Policy Implementation Strategy and Tanzania Elephant Implementation Plan 2023-2033. This gathering provided a platform to highlight the significant strides made in the ongoing fight against poaching and the illegal wildlife trade.

The UNDP's Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT) project, a collaboration with the Tanzanian government through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism and with support from the GEF, has emerged as a shining example of success in combating poaching. Launched during a critical period of heightened poaching, particularly from 2009 to 2013 when Tanzania was identified as one of the "Gang of Eight" by conservationists, this initiative has made substantial progress.

Recent data from the Ministry for 2022 reveals remarkable achievements. Since 2014, Tanzania has witnessed a commendable increase in its elephant population, soaring from 43,330 to an impressive 60,000. Additionally, rhino numbers have shown extraordinary growth, rising to more than 200.

These milestones have been made possible through the collaborative efforts of the government and key institutions under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism, including TANAPA, TAWIRI, NCAA, and TAWA.  Representatives from law enforcement stakeholders such as PCCB, TISS, DPP, and the Police Forces, have also played a pivotal role in these accomplishments.

The UNDP extends its commendation to the Tanzanian government, its partners, and the local community for their commitment to combatting poaching. The IWT project has served as a catalyst for positive change, reinforcing the importance of international collaboration in preserving wildlife.

As we celebrate these accomplishments, the UNDP remains steadfast in its commitment to support Tanzania in sustaining and advancing its efforts against poaching. The IWT project exemplifies the profound impact that collaboration, vigilance, and proactive measures can have on safeguarding Tanzania's rich wildlife heritage.

“UNDP stands united with the government and partners in the battle against poaching, safeguarding the treasures of Tanzania for generations to come. We remain committed to supporting the country in sustaining and advancing its efforts against poaching. The IWT project exemplifies the impact that collaboration, vigilance, and protective measures can have on preserving Tanzania's rich wildlife heritage." Commented Shigeki Komatsubara, UNDP Resident Representative

“It is through your deepest commitment to support the innovative efforts that our Ministry has continued to adapt to meet every challenge successfully as we move forward into the future. In this spirit, the Ministry in collaboration with partners has developed Wildlife Policy Implementation Strategy 2023 – 2033 and reviewed the Tanzania Elephant Management Plan 2023 – 2033. The interventions under these Strategies will focus on the use of science and technology in addressing conservation challenges of our time,” highlighted Hon. Angelah Kairuki, Minister of Tourism and Natural Resources.

We invite you to join us on this transformative journey to safeguard Tanzania's wildlife resources, protect its natural heritage, and foster socio-economic development for the communities it serves.

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For more information contact:
Sawiche Wamunza, UNDP Communication and Partnership Analyst, sawiche.wamunza@undp.org