World Earth Day: CCF’s impactful conservation efforts across Africa

World Earth Day, an annual global event celebrated on 22nd April is a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility towards environmental protection and sustainability. In alignment with this ethos, the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) convenes to share and celebrate its initiatives aimed at safeguarding the cheetah population and preserving our shared planet, particularly in the Horn of Africa.

How can CCF projects protect our environment?

CCF’s projects play a pivotal role in environmental conservation, extending beyond the preservation of cheetahs to encompass broader initiatives crucial for human well-being. Africa’s remarkable biodiversity faces escalating threats, with ongoing losses of species and habitat. According to research by IPBES, Africa hosts nine of the world’s 36 biodiversity hotspots, regions characterised by significant endemic plant species and substantial losses of native vegetation.

Moreover, approximately 20% of Africa’s land surface, spanning 6.6 million km2, suffers from degradation due to soil erosion, salinisation, pollution, and loss of vegetation or soil fertility. This environmental degradation poses risks not only to cheetahs but also to humans and future generations. Thus, combating habitat loss emerges as a critical imperative for the collective well-being of all stakeholders.

Restoring habitat 

Restoration of habitats stands as a cornerstone in CCF’s conservation efforts. By partnering with local landowners to implement wildlife-friendly land management practices, CCF strives to reclaim degraded habitats. 

In Namibia, where 12-14% of bushland is infested with undesirable species, CCF’s innovative approach involves the removal of thorn bushes to produce Bushblok— a marketable product that supports local livelihoods while benefiting wildlife and ecosystems. This endeavour expands habitat availability for cheetahs, enhancing their well-being alongside that of other wildlife and local communities.

Conservancy projects 

CCF is dedicated to developing conservation programmes across various regions of Africa. In 2024, our focus is on conservancy efforts in Somaliland. In March 2024, we convened a governance meeting to establish a community-centred conservancy in a few regions of Somaliland.

This pivotal meeting paved the way for a series of four workshops attended by key stakeholders, including the Minister of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), Regional Governors, District Mayors, and Village Development Committees. The primary objective was to engage over 50 villages in the assessment of conservancy areas, fostering active participation from local communities in conservation endeavours. 

A comprehensive strategy to preserve the biodiversity of these two sites was devised, in line with the principle of community-centred conservancy. This inclusive approach empowers residents to assume a significant role in managing and safeguarding their environment under the guidance of the MoECC. Moving forward, CCF is committed to advancing this project, contributing not only to environmental preservation but also to the prosperity of local communities.

Future farmers of Africa 

Additionally, CCF’s Future Farmers of Africa programme underscores the integration of conservation and sustainable livelihoods. By equipping farmers with predator-friendly livestock and wildlife management techniques, CCF mitigates human-wildlife conflict while promoting coexistence between farmers and wildlife. This holistic approach not only safeguards wild cheetahs but also fosters sustainable agricultural practices beneficial to both humans and wildlife.

Through our programme we can: