By Abbas Nazil
A recent online poll conducted by NatureNews Africa across major social media platforms has revealed that majority of Africans believe wildlife species are the continent’s most endangered natural resource.
The survey, which ran simultaneously on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and LinkedIn, gathered public opinions on which natural resource Africa is at the greatest risk of losing.
According to the results, 42 percent of respondents identified wildlife species as the most threatened, citing growing concerns over poaching, habitat loss, and the impact of climate change on biodiversity.
Forest resources and industries followed closely with 38 percent of the votes, reflecting widespread worry over deforestation, unsustainable logging, and land-use conversion for agriculture and infrastructure.
Environmental experts have long warned that the depletion of forest cover across Africa is accelerating, leading to soil degradation, loss of livelihoods, and ecosystem imbalance.
Meanwhile, 10 percent of participants expressed concern for the continent’s rivers and lakes, pointing to pollution, over-extraction, and drying water bodies as emerging challenges.
Another 10 percent said clean air is the resource most at risk, highlighting the growing issue of industrial emissions, urban pollution, and poor waste management in major cities.
NatureNews Africa, in its reaction to the outcome of the poll, said the result reflects the deepening awareness among Africans about environmental sustainability and the urgent need to protect biodiversity.
The organization noted that the feedback would help shape ongoing conversations and policy advocacy toward sustainable management of natural resources across the continent.
The poll underscores the growing public awareness of Africa’s environmental challenges and the urgent need for conservation policies and sustainable resource management.
Observers say the result mirrors rising calls for stronger regional cooperation and community participation in protecting Africa’s natural heritage.
