Environmental crimes are costing Africa a staggering $195 billion annually, which is approximately ten times Nigeria’s annual national budget. This staggering figure highlights the severity of environmental crimes on the continent.
The impact of these crimes is far-reaching, jeopardizing food security, jobs, and income for millions of people. Over 70% of people in sub-Saharan Africa rely on forests and woodlands for their livelihoods, making them particularly vulnerable to environmental crimes.
Environmental crimes in Africa include illegal mining, wildlife trafficking, illegal logging, hazardous waste dumping, and other environmental violations. These crimes are often concentrated in remote and marginalized communities, which are beyond the reach of conventional security, government, and media.
To combat environmental crimes, it’s essential to address the root causes, including poverty, weak regulatory frameworks, and low risks of detection and conviction. This requires a collaborative effort from governments, NGOs, and local communities to protect Africa’s natural resources and promote sustainable development.
Source: The Nation
