A report by the IUCN indicates that Eastern and Southern Africa is halfway to meeting the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) Target 3, also known as the 30 x 30 target.
30 x 30 Target:
The 30 x 30 target is a global initiative aiming for countries to protect at least 30% of their terrestrial, inland water, marine, and coastal areas by 2030.
- So far, Eastern and Southern Africa have protected 17.24% of their land, encompassing 5,544 protected and conserved areas.
- The report notes an increased role for indigenous peoples and local communities in conservation. They govern 316 protected areas, with 35.44% of these in Namibia and the remainder in Kenya, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania, and one site in Botswana.
Challenges in Implementing the 30 x 30 Target:
- Variability within the Region: 38% of countries have less than 10% terrestrial coverage.
- Government-driven Initiative: Indigenous peoples, local communities, and the private sector have limited involvement.
- Dispersed Mandates: Multiple ministries are responsible for conservation, leading to inefficiencies and coordination difficulties.