By Abdullahi Lukman
Leaders in conservation, finance, and youth development have called for stronger community leadership and investment to build a sustainable wildlife economy in Africa.
The call was made during the Business of Conservation Conference 2026 held in Nairobi from March 4 to 7.
The conference, hosted by the African Leadership University School of Wildlife Conservation, brought together policymakers, conservation practitioners, investors, entrepreneurs, and youth leaders to explore ways Africa can transform its wildlife resources into long-term economic opportunities.
Participants said Africa’s wildlife supports millions of livelihoods and sustains critical ecosystems, but converting that natural wealth into lasting economic growth remains a major challenge.
Many speakers stressed that conservation efforts must also deliver clear economic benefits to communities living alongside wildlife.
Throughout the conference, experts emphasized that conservation and development should not be treated as competing priorities.
They argued that successful conservation initiatives must create jobs, strengthen local economies, and provide tangible benefits for communities.
Speakers noted that Africa’s wildlife economy will largely be shaped by people who live in wildlife landscapes and manage natural resources daily.
As a result, they stressed the importance of involving local communities in conservation policy, governance, and investment decisions.
Youth participation also emerged as a key theme during the event.
A special session highlighted how young Africans are introducing new ideas, technologies, and entrepreneurial approaches to conservation challenges.
Simangele Msweli, Associate Director for Conservation Education and Youth Leadership at the African Wildlife Foundation, said addressing the biodiversity and climate crisis requires broad participation across society.
She added that conservation must be seen not only as a moral responsibility but also as a field offering opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and meaningful employment for young people.
Participants also focused on practical solutions to strengthen Africa’s wildlife economy.
During the conference, the African Wildlife Foundation partnered with the African Leadership University to introduce the Wildlife Economies Decision and Investment Support Toolkit.
The platform is designed to help governments, investors, development partners, and conservation groups plan and finance wildlife-based economic initiatives.
By combining ecological, social, and financial data, the toolkit aims to help decision-makers better understand the economic value of wildlife landscapes and attract investment into conservation.
Edwin Tambara, Director of Global Leadership at the African Wildlife Foundation, said Africa’s wildlife economies could become major drivers of sustainable growth if investments are managed strategically and guided by reliable data.
Conference participants agreed that many conservation models already exist across Africa that link wildlife protection with economic opportunity.
However, they said stronger partnerships, better information, and sustained financial support are needed to expand these initiatives.
With increasing pressure on wildlife habitats from climate change, population growth, and land-use competition, experts warned that urgent action is needed.
They concluded that with the right leadership, investment, and community involvement, Africa’s wildlife could remain both a global conservation priority and a key driver of sustainable development across the continent.
