Dear friends, The Minister of Natural Resources and Environment in Botswana is sounding the alarm about trophy hunting in his country about trophy hunting in his country. That might sound strange since Botswana banned trophy hunting in 2014 and has taken the lead on wildlife conservation in Africa. But over the past few years, the country has come under immense pressure from the pro-hunting lobby in Europe and neighbouring countries to reverse the ban. Botswana's policy to fight wildlife hunting is working, and there's plenty of proof. Ecotourism, such as wildlife safaris, has become a booming part of the economy as tourists enjoy the chance to observe wild animals in their natural environment. Wildlife that used to live in neighbouring countries are relocating to Botswana to seek refuge. Roughly 130,000 elephants now live in Botswana, which is the most in any country. But now that animals are moving into Botswana in such large numbers, European hunters want access. In other nearby countries where hunting is legal, including Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, the "game" has become scarce because of overhunting and poaching. But we cannot allow these hunters to sway Botswana. It's time to show that our voices are louder than theirs. Thank you for all that you do,  | | Miranda B.
The Care2 Petitions Team |
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