By Liz Anyango
Nairobi, Kenya: Is the world on the verge of a wildlife collapse? From the Amazon’s disappearing jaguars to the Arctic’s vanishing polar bears, and Africa’s elephants falling victim to poaching, alarming new data confirms conservationists’ worst fears: global biodiversity is in freefall.
The 2024 Living Planet Report, the 15th edition of the World Wide Fund for Nature’s WWF-Kenya biennial flagship publication, reveals a shocking 73% decline in wildlife populations worldwide, with Africa experiencing an even steeper drop of 76% since 1970.
This decline is driven by habitat loss, over exploitation, pollution, and climate change—warning us that urgent action is needed to protect ecosystems and the livelihoods they support.
The data paints a grim picture, showing just how serious the loss of wildlife is across the globe. Africa, in particular, has been hit hard, as key ecosystems are facing growing threats.
If immediate steps are not taken, the continent may reach critical tipping points where ecosystems can no longer recover, leading to severe impacts on food security, water supply, and resilience to climate change.
Kenya, though, offers a glimmer of hope amidst this crisis. While many countries are seeing wildlife populations fall, Kenya has successfully stabilized, and in some cases, increased the numbers of key species like the African lion, elephant, and black rhino.
For instance, the black rhino population, which had dropped to just 400 individuals in the 1980s, has now grown to 1,004 as of 2023, marking a major victory for conservation efforts.
According to Jackson Kiplagat, Head of Conservation Programmes at WWF-Kenya, flagship species like the African lion, elephant, and black rhino remain endangered. However, he emphasized that with continued efforts from stakeholders, their populations can be stabilized and even increased.
He pointed to the resurgence of the black rhino as proof of what coordinated efforts can achieve, noting that this recovery is a testament to the impact of consistent conservation initiatives at both local and global levels.
While Kenya has made significant strides, the challenges across Africa require more than local successes. As ecosystems continue to degrade, the solutions must be global and far-reaching.
Transitioning into a sustainable future will depend on transforming conservation practices and changing how we produce food, generate energy, and manage financial systems.
Mohamed Awer, Chief Executive Officer of WWF-Kenya, points to Kenya’s commitment to global frameworks like the Global Biodiversity Framework and the Paris Agreement.
Kenya’s National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs) set ambitious goals that aim to restore ecosystems, ensure sustainable use of biodiversity, and share benefits equitably.
During 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) on biodiversity, set to take place in Cali, Colombia, from October 21 to November 1, 2024, countries are preparing to submit revised National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs).
COP16, which focuses on global efforts to protect and restore biodiversity, is a key moment for nations to commit to stronger conservation measures. WWF is urging countries to ensure these plans are both ambitious and comprehensive, while also calling for increased financing to support biodiversity initiatives.
At the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11 to November 22, WWF hopes to see the agreement of a new, ambitious climate finance goal aimed at addressing the needs of developing countries.
COP29 serves as a critical platform for nations to come together to discuss and negotiate actions related to climate change, including strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, adapting to climate impacts, and enhancing global cooperation.
This year’s conference is particularly important as it seeks to establish funding mechanisms that can help developing nations transition to sustainable practices and build resilience against climate-related challenges.
Awer emphasizes that for climate finance to make a real difference, it must reach the most vulnerable communities, especially indigenous groups who are most affected by the loss of nature and climate change.
He explains: “If funding is directed effectively and includes everyone, the next five years could be crucial for improving biodiversity in Kenya and beyond.”
Ultimately, the 2024 Living Planet Report makes it clear that with strong collaboration between governments, local communities, and global stakeholders, there is a chance to create a future where both nature and people thrive.
WWF-Kenya emphasizes that we have a unique opportunity to secure a better outcome for the future of life on Earth. The future is not yet decided, but through united action, we can ensure that nature is restored and protected for generations to come.
