The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has issued a stark warning, declaring that African elephants are now under “imminent risk” of extinction due to escalating threats from poaching, habitat loss, and illegal wildlife trade.
In a newly released report, CITES revealed that populations of both African forest elephants and savanna elephants have drastically declined over the past decade. Forest elephant numbers have plummeted by more than 80%, while savanna elephant populations have decreased by at least 60%, primarily across central and west Africa.
"This is a wake-up call for the global community," said Ivonne Higuero, Secretary-General of CITES. "If urgent, coordinated international action is not taken, these iconic species could vanish from the wild within our lifetimes."
Drivers of Decline
The report highlights several factors fueling the crisis:
- Poaching: Despite international bans, the illegal ivory trade continues to thrive, driven by demand in Asia and beyond.
- Habitat Destruction: Expanding agriculture, mining, and infrastructure projects are destroying elephant habitats and migration corridors.
- Climate Change: Prolonged droughts and changes in vegetation patterns are affecting elephants' access to water and food.
Call for Action
CITES is urging countries to increase funding for conservation, strengthen enforcement against poachers and traffickers, and promote community-based protection efforts. There is also a renewed call to completely shut down domestic ivory markets and to bolster international cooperation.
Conservationists are echoing the alarm. “We are at a tipping point,” said Paula Kahumbu, CEO of WildlifeDirect. “Without immediate protection, Africa’s elephants could be lost forever.”
Global Significance
African elephants are not just charismatic megafauna—they play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystems they inhabit. As keystone species, they help shape landscapes and ensure biodiversity. Their extinction would have catastrophic ripple effects throughout the environment.
CITES will convene an emergency meeting of its member states later this month to discuss enhanced measures for elephant protection.
As the world watches, the fate of Africa’s giants hangs in the balance.