WWF Concern at Record Number of Ivory Seizures in 2011
WWF charity officials are becoming increasing concerned over the number of ivory seizures last year, the largest recorded in over two decades. With demand for ivory ever growing in Asia, it appears migrant networks in Africa are poaching to order for tusks that are being turned into ornaments, jewellery, and used in medicine.
TRAFFIC, a joint conservation group between WWF and the World Conservation Union, reported 13 seizures last year of over 800kg of ivory last year. This total is more than double the amount recorded in 2010. Poaching appears to be growing due to China’s investment drive into Africa to secure mineral and energy resources.
TRAFFIC’s Elephant Trade Information System Manager, Tom Milliken, said –
A conservative estimate of the weight of ivory seized in the 13 largest seizures in 2011 puts the figure at more than 23 tonnes, a figure that probably represents some 2,500 elephants, possibly more. We’ve reached a point in Africa’s history where there are more Asian nationals on the continent than ever before. They have contacts with the end use market and now they are at the source in Africa. This is all adding up to an unprecedented assault on elephants and other wildlife.
Central Africa appears to have been the most affected, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo. Other areas that has seem a rise in elephant poaching include –
- Zimbabwe
- Zambia
- Mozambique
- Tanzania
- Kenya
Since 1989 a global ban on ivory trade has been in place, yet still the number of elephants that are unnecessarily slaughtered each year rises. If this increase in the number of ivory seizures is not a wake up call to the African government to take action, I’m not sure what is.
Adopt an Elephant with WWF UK
The WWF is a non profit organisation who can only sustain their tireless work in saving the planet and its inhabitants through donations. You can help raise funds through the WWF Adopt an Elephant scheme.
From as little as £3 a month you receive a certificate, a print of your animal, a greetings card, and a soft toy that would make a fantastic charity gift for a loved one.
