Before the Covid 19 outbreak, the African tourism industry employed 24.6 million people across the continent, representing 6.8% of the total employment in the continent.

However, this industry, as well as our wildlife, is facing possible extinction primarily from poaching. Since 1960, the black rhino population is down by 97.6%, approximately 1000 mountain gorillas remain and as many as 35,000 elephants are killed each year. The African Lion is the second largest living big cat after the tiger and the sound of its roar can be heard as far as 8 km away. However, its population decreased by 43% in 21 years and its regionally extinct in 15 African countries with as few as 23,000 left today

This is why it is crucial to conserve our wildlife. Our guest Kaddu K Sebunya, CEO of the African Wildlife Foundation, joined us this week to discuss matters of conservation in the continent.

How can Africa embrace development while preserving its wildlife? We touch on key issues like poaching, conservation efforts, Africa’s criminal justice systems to fight illegal wildlife trade while promoting this coexistence among others.

Kaddu Kiwe Sebunya has 25 years of Government relations, conservation and international development experience. He has distinguished himself in the industry as a leader at all levels—from community level engagement through the highest levels of government in Africa, Europe, China, and the Americas.

He is  one of the most visible and respected voices for wildlife, wild lands, conservation, and sustainable development on the continent. He is honored to advise the Pan-African Institutions and several African states on implementation of the African Union Vision 2063 and has become a frequent and sought-after speaker in Africa, Europe, China, and the United States.