A wildlife conservation organisation in Botswana has called for the permanent prohibition of elephant trophy hunting and stronger anti-poaching legislation throughout the country.
The Elephant Protection Society argues that hunting undermines conservation efforts and damages Botswana’s standing as a conservation leader, according to statements made to Africa Brief News.
“Elephant hunting weakens public support for broader conservation efforts and sends the wrong message about the value of living wildlife,” said organisation representative Oaitse Nawa.
“Even the loss of a few key elephants can disrupt herd movements, breeding patterns, and increase human-wildlife conflict.”
Botswana reinstated trophy hunting in 2020 after a five-year ban.
The current system allows local hunting license holders to sell trophies, though ivory remains regulated under international agreements.
The society disputes claims that hunting effectively manages elephant populations or provides significant community benefits, calling elephant overpopulation “a myth propagated by hunting companies.”
The organisation advocates for eco-tourism alternatives, community-led conservation initiatives and non-lethal population management strategies.
Government officials from the Ministry of Environment and Tourism have expanded hunting quotas in several regions, including area NG35, citing large elephant populations.
The conservation group warned residents near Maun to remain vigilant in areas where hunting takes place, suggesting that recent elephant-related incidents may be connected to hunting activities.