Former Botswana President Ian Khama appointed Africa representative for Conservation International
US-based global wildlife and nature organization Conservation International has appointed former Botswana President Ian Khama as a Distinguished Fellow and regional representative for Africa.
Former President Khama shares a bon-fire with slum dwellers
during a meet-the-people tour of Mogoditshane, a poor district of
Gaborone in June 2016.
In a statement issued from its headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, Conservation International chairman Peter Seligmann said as a Distinguished Fellow, Khama will build on a decades-long conservation legacy to forge the path to sustainable development in Africa.
“Khama, a driving force behind the Gaborone Declaration for Sustainability in Africa (GDSA), will continue to work with member countries, and engage new ones to align economic development and sustainability goals.
“Khama will also work with the international community to combat the illegal wildlife trade through the Elephant Protection Initiative, a multi-national (anti-poaching) coalition where Conservation International serves as the secretariat,” the organization said.
Khama is expected to build on his success in turning Botswana into a beacon of sustainable tourism to provide continental leadership in ensuring that tourism supports the regional environmental and cultural heritage.
Seligmann said President Khama, who has previously served Conservation International as a board member for 19 years, would providing unique perspectives to securing nature for the benefit of the people.
Founded in the US in 1987, Conservation International now works in more than 30 countries spanning six continents. It advocates for the use of science, policy and partnerships to protect the nature that people rely on for food, fresh water and livelihoods.
Author: Oscar Nkala
