The revocation of all hunting licences of Green Mile Safaris Ltd by Tanzania’s Minister of Natural Resources and Tourism, Lazaro Nyalandu, has been praised by hunting interests in that country and beyond.
The Tanzania Professional Hunters Association (TPHA) has welcomed the move against the Green Mile’s “illegal and unethical tourist hunting practices”. The infringements came to light in a promotional video clip, which revealed violations such as the use of automatic weapons and shooting of young animals. The UAE-based operator has threatened legal action against the Tanzanian government.
The Dallas Safari Club in Texas was another voice in favour of the step, stating on its website: “Tanzania has seen its share of difficulties in prosecuting poachers and safari operators who flagrantly violate laws, so this move is a noteworthy and welcome change. We’re hopeful that Minister Nyalandu’s decision will withstand the threatened legal challenge.”
The incident comes at a time when the US Fish and Wildlife Service imposed a suspension on imports of sport-hunted African elephant trophies from Tanzania and Zimbabwe, for the calendar year 2014. It cited questionable management practices, a lack of effective law enforcement and weak governance in these countries, which have led to uncontrolled poaching and dramatic population decline. The service will review the suspension for 2015, or on receipt of information indicating an improvement in both situations.
Elephant poaching in Africa continues to hover around a shocking 20 000 a year. Tourism Update asked Mike Angelides, Secretary General of TPHA, whether a ban on elephant hunting, either temporary or permanent, could benefit Tanzanian wildlife. He replied that such a ban would be detrimental to all the country’s fauna and flora.
He supported a crackdown on licensed hunting operators who, nevertheless, flouted accepted rules. “We ask that any unethical and illegal methods of hunting by a Tanzania professional hunter be reported to TPHA in an official manner. If the person is a member of TPHA he will be questioned by the TPHA disciplinary committee and will be disciplined accordingly, and the Tanzania Wildlife division will be informed of our decision along with our recommendation of action.”
The US Fish and Wildlife Service’s action on elephant trophies from Zimbabwe was prompted by the poisoning last year of 300 elephants in Hwange National Park. It was subsequently criticised by Environment, Water and Climate Minister, Saviour Kasukuwere.
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