President Ian Khama said it is crucial to engage with the international community in order to find a sustainable and lasting solution to close down the markets for illegal trade of elephant trophy to some Asian Countries.
Khama said it is disturbing that incidences of poaching and illegal trade in wildlife seems to be increasing on the continent and urged some member states to help curb the increasing number of illegal trade to protect the environment.
”It is important to note that both our government attach a lot of importance to wildlife conservation and management. In view of the enormous potential that this natural resources has in contributing to the growth of our respective economies, we need to do all in our power to ensure its preservation and sustenance for present and future generations”, said Khama
Speaking during Kenyan President State Visit, Khama called on President Uhuru Kenyatta and his government to support and work with Botswana in order to curb illicit trade in wildlife products.
Khama’s younger brother who is Minister of Wildlife and Tourism early this year vowed to maintain their stance on ”shot to kill” policy after receiving some donations amounting to P17 Million from China in support of anti poaching war.
The government of Botswana through the Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism has warned that the “Shoot to Kill” policy among security agents will remain the option despite criticism from the international community.
Tshekedi Khama said despite criticism from the international community on the “shoot to kill” policy there are no efforts among countries to support anti-poaching initiatives to save wildlife species targeted by criminal syndicates.
Khama stated that there has been an outcry among the international community’s about the shoot to kill policy but the same countries are failing to come on board through viable options.
He stated that currently China and the Netherlands are the two countries that have supported the anti-poaching initiatives aimed at protecting wildlife species such as elephants targeted by criminals for ivory.
President Kenyatta said through the cordial relations that the two countries are enjoying they will support Botswana to stop the illicit trade of ivory.
President Kenyatta together with Presidents of Botswana, Gabon and Uganda are founders of the Giants Club Summit which it’s aim is to look at anti-poaching solutions and how it can be implemented.
In his state Visit to Botswana, President Kenyatta confirmed about the Giants Club Summit and said the two countries shared some common values and realities which date as far back as 50 years ago.
He said the two countries values with the highest respect the conservation of wildlife and the magnificent flora and fauna sites which contribute to the tourism in to the two countries.
He said the two countries will continue working together to maintain peace and security.
