By William Abala
Nairobi, Kenya: On World Elephant Day, conservationists and scientists rallied together to deliver a message to the Tanzanian Government through a global petition.
The petition which has amassed over 500,000 signatures since March 2024, urges an immediate end to trophy hunting of elephants along the Tanzania-Kenya border.
This petition follows a controversial decision by Tanzania to issue hunting permits targeting “Super Tuskers” from the Greater Amboseli–West Kilimanjaro elephant population.
In the past eight months alone, five of these creatures were hunted and killed in Northern Tanzania, sparking outrage among the international community.
The Tanzanian government, however, has signaled its intention to issue even more permits, a move that has deeply concerned conservationists.
During a press conference at a Nairobi hotel, the petition was sent by courier to the Tanzanian High Commission in Nairobi and the Tanzanian Statehouse, emphasizing the urgency of this issue.
A Shared Responsibility Across Borders
While the Tanzanian government holds sovereign authority over its wildlife, scientists reminded both Tanzania and Kenya of their shared responsibility in protecting this cross-border elephant population.
For three decades, these countries have cooperated under a bilateral agreement that has been instrumental in preserving these elephants.
Dr. Cynthia Moss, founder of the Amboseli Trust for Elephants, pointed out the gravity of the situation, stating, “The loss of these elephants is not just a blow to elephant populations but to our collective efforts in conservation.”
The Unique Value of the Amboseli–West Kilimanjaro Elephant Population
The petition highlights the significant ecological and economic importance of the Amboseli–West Kilimanjaro elephant population, which is not only a crucial genetic reservoir but also a symbol of the long-standing conservation efforts that transcend national borders.
Until 2023, there had been a 30-year period without any reported incidents of elephant hunting. However, this changed with the introduction of a new hunting quota in 2022 by Kilombero North Safaris.
The last tragic hunting event of this magnitude occurred in 1994, resulting in an international outcry and a subsequent moratorium on trophy hunting of this transboundary elephant population.
The Threat to Africa’s Largest Elephants
Today, the Amboseli ecosystem hosts only 10 elephants with tusks weighing around 45 kg (100 lbs) each, making them the largest of their kind in Africa. The new hunting permits could lead to the extinction of these “Super Tuskers” within the next three years.
Dr. Joyce Poole, Scientific Director of Elephant Voices, emphasized the role these older males play in elephant society, warning that their loss would be irreplaceable.
Calls for Bilateral Cooperation to Preserve Shared Natural Heritage
Although Kenya banned hunting in 1977, where it remains illegal, Tanzania continues to permit it, allowing hunting companies to obtain licenses on behalf of their clients. The petition, supported by a consortium of over 50 African conservation organizations, calls on Tanzanian authorities to work closely with their Kenyan counterparts to safeguard this shared natural heritage.
Dr. Paula Kahumbu, CEO of WildlifeDirect, called for high-level dialogue between the two nations’ leaders.
“We urge President Ruto of Kenya and President Samia Suluhu of Tanzania to meet and agree on the shared immense scientific and economic value of preserving these cross-border elephants. The long-term benefits of ecotourism, science, and conservation far outweigh the short-term gains from trophy hunting in one country.”
Concerns over Unethical Hunting Practices
The petition also brings to light unethical hunting practices, including the use of helicopters to locate elephants and the concealment of carcasses by burning or burying them.
Dr. Winnie Kiiru of the Elephant Protection Initiative and Mpala Research Center expressed worrying concerns over the growing moral decadence and economic damage.
“The killing of these iconic elephants for ‘sport’ is morally troubling and economically short-sighted.”
The Greater Amboseli–West Kilimanjaro elephant population comprises approximately 2,000 individuals, with around 600 males, including 10 “Super Tuskers.”
These elephants are known for their exceptionally large tusks, a trait attributed to their unique genetic makeup and decades of protection from poaching and trophy hunting.
The recent actions by the Tanzanian government threaten not only these iconic animals but also the legacy of conservation that has preserved them for generations.
