As the only great ape species experiencing a population rise, the mountain gorilla’s recovery is an undeniable conservation success story. But the unprecedented growth poses a challenge for its habitat in the Virunga Mountains: can it sustain the future of this critically endangered species in a rapidly industrializing Africa?

The population of the Kilombero District in Tanzania is heavily reliant on agriculture. Approximately 100,000 small-scale farmers cultivate predominantly rice and cocoa. On average, their fields are only around 0.5 hectares in size. Roughly 35% of the farmers are female. Economic dependence and lack of management knowledge lead to high losses during both harvest and processing, resulting in insufficient income.

For the past several years, Africa has experienced unparalleled economic growth and entrepreneurship. As indigenous and multinational companies look to make their mark on the continent, they would be remiss to overlook the incredible value add of Africa’s wildlife and wild lands. Water catchments within Africa’s forests supply water to a third of the continent’s largest cities—supporting human life and economies.

We at AWF strive to be a bold, innovative organization. For example, at first hint of a wildlife trafficking crisis on the African continent a few years ago, AWF acted quickly to implement an emergency species grants program that would maximize the impact of your investment across the continent.

We believe in a continuously evolving and multi-dimensional approach to conservation, ensuring we stay as unique as the African continent on which we work. Our new mission and visual identity proudly reflect AWF’s commitment to wildlife and wild lands as an integral part of Africa’s vibrant future.

Since stepping into the role of African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) president in January 2016, Kaddu Sebunya has met with heads of state and regional bodies in Africa to advocate for sustainable development that takes the continent’s natural riches—its wildlife and wild lands—into account.

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AWF looks at how its efforts mirror those of an organization launched to secure Africa's future.

After taking a quick glance at poaching and other environmental statistics, it’s oftentimes hard to figure out what our generation’s environmental legacy will be for our children. Will there be anything left for them? For that matter, will they even be willing to accept this burden?

In Africa, getting access to a good education isn’t so easy if you live in the bush. Meanwhile, these rural areas are where you find the rich habitats and wildlife.

AWF has historically used its own, donor-driven capital to support the development of conservation tourism in key areas under threat. While this strategy has proved successful, it also has its limitations.

Badges of wealth vary widely, from jewels to Rolex watches. In recent decades, however, there has come another one—ivory—which is regarded as both a symbol of status and a substance from which religious icons are made.