Overview
Conservation planning supports social, ecological, and economic values.
African Wildlife Foundation firmly believes that with proper planning, Africa can simultaneously support robust economic development and viable conservation landscapes, which is why AWF invests heavily in conservation planning at all levels.
AWF’s goal is to make ecosystem management a deliberate and intentional process benefitting people, wildlife, and the land itself. Land-use planning for enhanced rural development and wealth creation, as well as food and water security, can also meet conservation targets.
Without proper planning, natural resources are used unsustainably to realize socioeconomic objectives, extractive industries emerge, and infrastructure development persists without consideration for wildlife or lands.
Land-use planning depends on local empowerment and national frameworks.
To harmonize various land uses — conservation, agriculture, development, grazing — in a vast and cohesive landscape, we support participatory land-use planning. By engaging key stakeholders in the planning process AWF ensures that there is true ownership of and support for plans, which are embedded in the relevant legal framework.
Operating according to government regulations, community-driven natural resource management can revitalize rural economies and retain the stability of critical ecosystems.