EXPLAINERNews|WildlifeWhy are conservationists alarmed about Botswana’s biggest elephant hunt?While the government says the controversial practice is needed to manage the population of elephants, critics say it will exacerbate human-wildlife tensions.
Botswana's government has announced an increase in its annual trophy-hunting quota for elephants, which has prompted discussions regarding the management of the country's significant elephant population. Botswana is home to over 130,000 elephants,…
Botswana's government has announced an increase in its annual trophy-hunting quota for elephants, which has prompted discussions regarding the management of the country's significant elephant population. Botswana is home to over 130,000 elephants, representing nearly a third of Africa's total elephant population.
For 2026, Botswana's trophy-hunting quota has been raised to 430 elephants, compared to 410 in 2025. Trophy hunting involves the legal killing of wildlife such as elephants, with hunters often retaining parts like tusks. This practice has been a part of Botswana's wildlife conservation strategy following the lifting of a hunting ban in 2019.
The government supports trophy hunting as a means to manage elephant populations and mitigate human-wildlife conflict. Factors such as climate change and habitat encroachment have driven elephants into human settlements, resulting in property and crop damage. Additionally, regulated hunting generates significant revenue, with hunting licenses reaching up to $10,000.
In 2024, Botswana earned over $4 million from hunting licenses, compared to $2.7 million in 2023. This revenue supports both conservation efforts and community projects.
Botswana's government has announced an increase in its annual trophy-hunting quota for elephants, which has prompted discussions regarding the management of the country's significant elephant population.
Amy Dickman, a wildlife conservation professor, notes that while contentious, trophy hunting is not a primary threat to elephant populations. It provides critical funding for habitat maintenance and benefits local communities.
Critics, such as Will Travers of the wildlife charity Born Free, express concerns about the biological impact of targeting mature elephants with large tusks. These individuals play crucial roles in elephant society, and their removal can disrupt social structures and exacerbate human-wildlife conflicts.
Oaitse Nawa of the Elephant Protection Society advocates for community-based approaches, including education and sustainable tourism linked to wildlife. By installing water boreholes and tourism facilities, communities can benefit economically without engaging in hunting.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
