The origin and future of Trans-boundary Conservation Area Networks (TFCA)- Southern Africa
Implementation of TFCAs has taken a rapid trend in various parts of the globe. Today, various countries, regions are at various levels and stages of TFCAs. Southern Africa has been identified to have the largest number of TFCA programs, currently with over 18 among the various SADC member states.
The history of TFCAs traces origin way back following an international treaty signed between the Republic of South Africa and Botswana in 1999 in a move to enhance collaborative management of their abundant wildlife resources. The first TFCA was officially launched on 12th May, 2000 which saw the uprising of many other TFCAs around the region and continent at large. The year 2013 saw an influx of 9 SADC member states join the TFCA program. TFCAs have gained traction to date with over 18 known TFCA programs across the Southern African continent, the largest known number around the word. TFCAs in Southern Africa cover an approximation of over 500,000 square kilometers.
The TFCA was initiated to overcome trans-boundary conservation challenges through creating common platforms for knowledge sharing and management, decision making and collaborative resource management with regards to conservation. TFCA presents a diverse network of Academia, Local communities, Public and Private sector into a multidisciplinary wildlife conservation pool. The TFCA network is today guided and led by a steering committee comprising representatives from various SADC member states and SADC secretariat.
The TFCA in southern Africa has recently registered steady progress in addressing trans-boundary conservation issues and conflicts. With a composition of 35% state representatives, 20% NGOs and a great proportion of local community representatives, the TFCA network is eminently an effective tool for addressing trans-boundary conservation conflicts.
Chopped by
