Tanzanian Minister Engages in Talks with US Wildlife Department on Elephant Trophy Ban Proposal

Dr. Pindi Chana, the Tanzanian Minister for Natural Resources and Tourism, held virtual discussions with a delegation from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to address a proposal by Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) seeking to block the importation of elephant trophies from hunting activities in the West Kilimanjaro hunting blocks, which border Amboseli National Park in Kenya.

The meeting was held on November 14, 2024, at the headquarters of the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) in Arusha.

During the discussions, the US delegation outlined the concerns raised in the petition submitted by the NGOs. The petition claims that Tanzania is involved in hunting elephants from Amboseli, which are part of ongoing research. 

It further alleges that such hunting contravenes a 30-year agreement to suspend hunting activities in the West Kilimanjaro-Amboseli corridor and poses a threat to the population of large-tusked elephants.

Dr. Chana, backed by a team of experts led by Dr. Alexander Lobora, provided comprehensive clarifications on the structured and regulated nature of elephant hunting in Tanzania. 

“Elephant hunting plays a crucial role in supporting conservation efforts and fostering community development. It is conducted legally and guided by extensive research and long-established practices,” Dr. Chana stated.

The Ministry firmly rejected the allegations outlined in the petition and encouraged the US Fish and Wildlife Service to dismiss the proposal put forward by the NGOs.