Botswana Lifts Its Ban On Elephant Hunting

"Botswana's government is lifting a ban that protected its elephants from being hunted, part of a series of decisions that could have lasting impacts on the country's conservation efforts."

"In a letter to reporters, the Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources Conservation and Tourism referred to elephants as predators and said their numbers 'appear to have increased.' It said a subcommittee found that conflicts between humans and elephants had risen, harming livestock and the livelihoods of Botswana's people."

"The announcement marked a sharp departure from the policies of former President Ian Khama, who suspended elephant hunting after data showed the population in decline. The ban took effect in 2014 but did not stop hunting in registered game ranches."

"In May, Botswana's newly elected president, Mokgweetsi Masisi, made international headlines for giving three African leaders stools made of elephant feet."

"In June, he requested a review of the ban on hunting elephants."

"His study group recommended 'regular but limited elephant culling,' in addition to establishing elephant meat canning for pet food and other products. Among other conclusions, it recommended the government expand Botswana's safari hunting industry."

"Authorities said Thursday that the government accepted all recommendations except the regular culling of elephants and the establishment of meat canning. 'This was rejected because culling is not considered acceptable given the overall continental status of elephants. Rather, a more sustainable method such as selective cropping should be employed,' the government said."