Kenya urges governments to fight wildlife trafficking
By Mathew.Ndungu, December 20, 2022Most illicit trade in wildlife is done through international water bodies, Kenya’s Ambassador and Special Envoy for Shipping and the Blue Economy Nancy Karigithu has said.
Karigithu, the former Shipping and Blue Economy PS, is now rooting for intergovernmental efforts in the fight against illicit wildlife trade.
She said various governments have been trying to combat the crime, but it remains a growing concern globally. Wildlife trafficking threatens not only biodiversity but also ecosystems vital for climate change mitigation, domestic and international economies, and potentially human health.
In her presentation at a forum organised by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) on guidelines for the prevention and suppression of the smuggling of wildlife on ships engaged in international maritime traffic, Karigithu urged governments to establish national joint port control units. These will facilitate inspections of vessels in transit status, search and seizure of suspected vessels and inter-agency, cross-sectoral and international collaborations.
Bangkok forum
The forum in Bangkok, Thailand, explored measures to prevent, detect and report wildlife trafficking on ships and other water vessels.
Further, she advocated for investigations and prosecution of culpable traffickers alongside the prevention and deterrence of corruption.
She regretted that the fight against wildlife trafficking that is estimated to generate billions per year; making it the fourth largest illegal trade — after trafficking in counterfeit products, drugs and humans — is still grappling with administrative and budgetary limitations.
At the same time, Karigithu noted with concern that inadequate equipment and facilities, obstructive legislative processes and porous borders have also continued to aid these crimes.
Kenya has suffered the scourge of illegal wildlife trade, having served as a source and transit state.
The special envoy lauded international organisations for working tirelessly to formulate guidelines on prevention, detection and reporting of wildlife trafficking. The IMO guidelines are expected to help combat wildlife trafficking.