Africa-Press – Seychelles. ZIMBABWE has emerged as a continental leader in the fight against pangolin poaching, recording the highest number of arrests linked to the illegal trade of the endangered species in Africa.
The milestone underscores the country’s tough stance on wildlife crime, even as global data shows pangolin trafficking remains widespread and highly organised, threatening the survival of the world’s most trafficked mammal.
At least 541 arrests have been made since January 2017, reflecting Zimbabwe’s strict wildlife laws and enforcement efforts.
The Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) has intensified operations to protect pangolins, with possession or dealing in the species attracting a mandatory nine-year prison sentence under the Parks and Wildlife Act.
In a recent case, four suspects were arrested in Mwenezi for allegedly attempting to sell a live pangolin, four lion teeth and a python skin for US$5 000. The accused are expected to face charges under the Act, underscoring Zimbabwe’s firm stance against wildlife crimes.
The pangolin trade remains lucrative, with scales fetching high prices on the black market. Conservationists warn, however, that illegal trafficking is pushing the species to the brink of extinction.
“Pangolins are being poached at an alarming rate, with all eight species facing a high risk of extinction,” said conservationist Bryan Moyo.
According to CITES, 2 222 seizures of pangolins and their parts were recorded in 49 countries between 2016 and 2024, involving an estimated 553 042 animals.
“Seizures made in 10 countries accounted for 96 per cent of all seized pangolins in this period. Based on the available data, at least 74 countries were identified as involved in illegal pangolin trade, which involved at least 178 unique trade routes,” the organisation said.
February 22 marked World Pangolin Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and promoting conservation efforts. This year’s commemorations were held under the theme ‘Guardians in Action’, paying tribute to conservationists safeguarding the species.
Zimbabwe marked the day with awareness campaigns and community outreach programmes to highlight the importance of protecting pangolins.
While Zimbabwe’s efforts to combat pangolin poaching are commendable, conservationists say more must be done to address the root causes driving the illegal trade.
“We need to work together to protect pangolins and other wildlife species,” Moyo said. “By working together, Zimbabwe can protect
its pangolin populations and preserve the country’s rich wildlife heritage.”
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