Africa Must Fund Its Own Forest Conservation, Says Renowned Conservationist Lee White

International funding for conservation in Africa, particularly in the vital Congo Basin, is undergoing a significant shift, according to conservationist Lee White. While direct aid from sources like the US Fish and Wildlife Service has diminished, White notes a rise in private philanthropy. However, he points out that traditional donor funding often comes with complex procedures and shifting priorities, creating operational challenges for conservation programs.

White, who previously served as Gabon’s Minister of Water, Forests, the Sea and Environment, argues that African governments must start viewing conservation not as an expense, but as a crucial investment. He highlights the immense economic and ecological value of the Congo Basin rainforest, essential for continental water cycles and climate stability. He suggests that protected areas, like national parks, should be treated as critical infrastructure, generating tangible economic benefits through services such as water provision for hydroelectric power.

He estimates conservation funding in Gabon has decreased by 30-40 percent, with many international pledges, including those made at the Glasgow climate conference, failing to fully materialize. White also critiques mechanisms like REDD+, designed to reward countries for reducing deforestation, citing Gabon’s experience of receiving only a fraction of the promised funds for carbon credits. He contends that a considerable portion of existing donor money is often absorbed by administrative costs and consultants in developed countries rather than directly supporting on-the-ground conservation.

Ultimately, White believes the long-term solution lies in African countries prioritizing and investing in their natural resources. He points to successful examples in Kenya, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa, where conservation has been integrated into national development strategies, driving economic growth through ecotourism and carbon markets. He concludes that demonstrating leadership and valuing these ecosystems as national assets will foster greater international support and ensure the sustainability of conservation efforts.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)