Strengthening prosecutions of wildlife crimes in Zanzibar
Zanzibar is a known transit point for illegal wildlife products such as ivory, pangolin scales, sea turtles, and exotic animals.
The illicit demand for these products endangers not only species but also the broader environmental and economic stability of both Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania.
Closing legal loopholes used by wildlife criminals and strengthening judicial frameworks is essential to counter the ongoing environmental and economic threats posed by illegal wildlife trade. A new project, “Strengthening the Judicial Framework Regarding Wildlife Legislation and Relevant Legal Mechanisms in Zanzibar”, is working to do just this.
A kick-off meeting held in Zanzibar brought together representatives from key ministries from both Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar.
We are pleased to partner with the German government and the government of Zanzibar to build a robust legal framework for prosecuting wildlife crimes. This project represents a critical step forward in protecting Zanzibar’s wildlife and ensuring the sustainability of its natural resources for future generations".
Mikala Lauridsen, Programme Office Director at TRAFFIC International East Africa
The project focuses on three key areas to address the gaps that allow many wildlife criminals to go undetected or unprosecuted.
Strengthening the legal framework provides the foundation for the project, while standardising data collection tools for wildlife crime incidents and enabling real-time information sharing would speed up processes and foster more effective collaboration between different authorities.
Improving coordination between government bodies, including the Judiciary, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources, and Livestock (MAINRL), and law enforcement agencies, would further support efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade.
21 representatives from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism (MNRT) of Tanzania Mainland, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources and Livestock (MAINRL) of Zanzibar, the Ministry of Blue Economy and Fisheries (MBEF) of Zanzibar, the National Prosecution Service (NPS), the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) of Zanzibar, the Zanzibar Environmental Management Authority (ZEMA), and Judiciary of Zanzibar, underwent training and engaged in practical discussions on how to best to implement improvements to existing frameworks.
We acknowledge the urgent need for improved legislation and enforcement mechanisms in the fight against wildlife crime. Our continued partnership with TRAFFIC and the German government will ensure that Zanzibar’s judiciary is equipped to tackle these challenges effectively".
Mr. Ali Khamis Juma, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, Natural Resources, and Livestock of Zanzibar
Notes:
This project is funded with support from the German Government.
