UNDP and AU launch B4R to protect Africa’s transboundary landscapes
The United Nations Development Programme, with the African Union Commission, has launched the Biodiversity for Resilience (B4R) initiative on the sidelines of the Africa Biodiversity Summit in Tlokweng, Botswana, marking a shift to integrated, continent-wide conservation. The programme targets 10 transboundary conservation areas covering more than 10 million hectares and aims to benefit about 10 million people over the next decade, linking ecosystem protection with livelihoods, climate resilience and regional integration – with clear relevance for wildlife tourism and cross‑border destination development.
Backed by an estimated US$3 billion over ten years, B4R prioritises ecological connectivity across iconic landscapes including KAZA, Greater Limpopo, Mara – Serengeti, Niassa – Selous and TRIDOM. Implementation focuses on science-based planning, inclusive governance and innovative finance – from multi-country trust funds to tourism levies and biodiversity credits – while centring communities, especially women and youth. By strengthening habitat corridors and shared management frameworks, the initiative aims to safeguard flagship species, support visitor infrastructure and unlock bankable nature-based tourism across borders.
Source: The Independent
