Combating the Endangerment of the African Elephant | Tunde Folawiyo

March 21, 2014 Editor Tunde Folawiyo, tunde folawiyo africa, tunde folawiyo bio, tunde folawiyo executive, tunde folawiyo oil, tunde folawiyo profile

Among the stunning landscapes of Africa exists an enormous variation of wildlife species. Although many of the continent’s animals are flourishing in their surroundings, there are many species at risk of endangerment and extinction, a great cause of concern for environmentalists and conservationists hoping to preserve all of the continent’s wildlife. Millions of citizens of Africa including Tunde Folawiyo have long held a profound respect and appreciation for the continent’s species, however many environmental factors – both natural and man-made – have diminished the quality of life for some animals. One such animal at risk is the African elephant.

Elephant populations throughout Africa vary greatly, with some at risk for extinction and others faring well. Southern Africa, for instance, houses large and expanding populations of elephant. Factors such as illegal hunting for meat and ivory, habitat loss and human-elephant conflict are responsible for the dwindling population of elephants in some areas. It is suggested that elephants may become extinct in some areas of Africa within 50 years, if human intervention continues.

While there may have once roamed as many as 3-5 million African elephants in the 1930s and 1940s, elephant numbers fell dramatically throughout the continent from the 1950s on. The populations of elephants vary greatly among the 37 range states. While some populations of elephants remain endangered, others are now secure. Most countries in West Africa count their elephants in tens or hundreds. It is suggested that approximately only three countries in the region have more than 1,000 animals.

In light of these findings, the United States government has unveiled a national strategy for combating wildlife trafficking effecting African species such as the elephant. These initiatives include a ban on the commercial trade of elephant ivory, which will aid in efforts to protect species like elephants and rhinos by prohibiting the import, export, or resale within of elephant ivory within the United States, with the exception of few circumstances. In addition, the White House announced plans to restore the Endangered Species Act protection for African Elephants. With these and the government’s plan to support limiting the number of African elephant sport-hunted trophies that an individual can import, the strides made may significantly assist in the mission to preserve these majestic species. With the help of millions of citizens across the world, including those such as Tunde Folawiyo, the elephants of Africa and other endangered species may continue to thrive once more.

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