WORLDBotswana threatens to send 20,000 elephants to "roam free" in Germany in public dispute over trophy hunting

Botswana's President Mokgweetsi Masisi has made a strong statement regarding the ongoing dispute between his country and Germany over hunting and conservation. According to the German newspaper Bild, Masisi has threatened to release 20,000 African elephants into Germany as a response to Germany's intention to limit the importation of hunting trophies from Africa.

Masisi's remarks were prompted by Germany's recent announcement of plans to restrict the import of hunting trophies, a move that has stirred tensions between the two nations. Botswana, home to approximately one-third of the global elephant population, has emphasized the importance of trophy hunting as a means of generating revenue for conservation efforts while managing elephant populations.

The President pointed out that Botswana has experienced a surge in elephant numbers due to successful conservation initiatives. He argued that trophy hunting serves as a vital tool for both revenue generation and population control.

Addressing Germany directly, Masisi urged Germans to coexist with animals in a manner consistent with their conservation ideals. He emphasized the seriousness of his statement, dismissing any notion that it was a jest.

African nations have often criticized Western policies that restrict effective population control measures like culling, which they argue are necessary for conservation. Botswana itself had banned trophy hunting in 2014 but later lifted the ban in response to local demands for revenue from the activity.

Many African countries rely significantly on tourism and hunting-related income, adopting policies of "sustainable use" to fund conservation efforts. However, discussions of global bans on trophy hunting have raised concerns about potential revenue losses.

Botswana's elephant population, estimated at around 130,000, continues to grow with thousands of new calves born each year. The country has even provided elephants to Angola and Mozambique to boost tourism and manage its own population.

Animal rights groups oppose hunting, citing cruelty concerns regardless of population numbers. However, leaders from southern African nations have warned of drastic measures, such as relocating elephants to major cities like London, if import bans on hunting trophies are imposed.

Masisi highlighted the challenges of elephant overpopulation, including conflicts with local communities over crop destruction and safety risks to humans. He emphasized the need for pragmatic solutions to manage these issues effectively.

The President's comments reflect the complex dynamics between conservation, hunting, and economic realities faced by African nations with significant wildlife populations.