European Commission Excludes Tanzania From Conservation Grant

The European Commission (EC) has made a significant decision regarding Tanzania’s eligibility for a conservation grant under its NaturAfrica initiative. This decision has implications for conservation efforts in East Africa, particularly concerning the Eastern Rift Savannahs and Watersheds (ERiSaWa) component of the initiative.

About NaturAfrica

• The NaturAfrica program, funded by the EC, aims to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable development in key African landscapes.
• It targets specific areas known as Key Landscapes for Conservation and Development (KLCDs).
• NaturAfrica strives to balance environmental protection, support local livelihoods, and ensure good governance for vital ecosystems.

Why Tanzania Was Excluded from NaturAfrica Program

• Human Rights Violations: The EC’s decision stemmed from well-documented human rights abuses associated with the forced eviction of Maasai communities from the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Loliondo in Tanzania.
• International Pressure: Advocacy groups like the Maasai International Solidarity Alliance (MISA) and Survival International played a crucial role in raising awareness about these violations.

Broader Implications of Exclusion of Tanzania from NaturAfrica Program

• International Trend: The EC’s action aligns with similar funding withdrawals by the World Bank and the German Development Cooperation, signaling a growing global emphasis on human rights in conservation.
• Conservation and Ethics: This development underscores the increasing importance of ethical considerations in conservation projects, ensuring they respect the rights and livelihoods of indigenous communities.

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