Moffat Mungazi
Takudzwa Manzero
Post Correspondent
BIRDLIFE International has launched results from a ground-breaking study that estimates that vultures in Southern Africa provide ecosystem services worth a staggering US$1,8 billion annually.
The report focused on birds living in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Zambia, so as to highlight the critical role vultures play in maintaining ecological balance and promoting human well-being.
The report reveals that vultures provide essential services, including sanitation and pest control, valued at US$93 million per year in the three countries.
BirdLife Zimbabwe Preventing Extinctions Programme Manager, Mr Leeroy Moyo emphasised the importance of the report in supporting policy advocacy for vulture conservation.
“By integrating these findings into national conservation strategies, we aim to continue mitigating threats such as poisoning, habitat loss, and illegal trade, thereby ensuring a sustainable future for vulture populations in Zimbabwe and the ecosystems they support,” he said.
Additionally, the study highlights the welfare loss due to lack of action to conserve vultures, equivalent to approximately US$47 million per year, whereas the welfare gains from conserving vultures equate to US$30 million per year.
The report’s findings are particularly significant, given the alarming decline of the vulture population in Africa.
Seven of the 11 species of vultures found in Africa are listed as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered on the IUCN Red List.
The main threats to vultures include poisoning, belief-based use, and electrocution by energy infrastructure.
Experts say engaging with local communities and gathering their perspectives was a crucial part of the study.
It brought forth open dialogue, debates and unique perspectives that people cherish when using the bird for cultural purposes.
The quantifying of value on the vital clean-up work vultures do, is to make a stronger case for conserving these birds.
BirdLife International and its partners hope that this study will promote vulture conservation efforts in the Southern Africa region, encouraging improved collaborations among governments, civil society, academia, and local communities.
“The decline of vulture populations across the continent is indeed worrying,” said Mr Matthew Lewis, Head of Conservation, Africa at BirdLife International. “This study on the economic value of vultures in the Southern Africa region is crucial in advancing conservation efforts. The findings will, not only raise awareness, but also help people appreciate the important role vultures play in the ecosystem,” he added.
Online Reporter