East African Species Program
Wildlife Fund • Kenya + 1 countries
Fighting for endangered species
The remaining forests scattered throughout eastern Africa are typically small and fragmented, but they contain remarkable levels of biodiversity. These forests vary greatly in their species composition, particularly among less mobile species; for example, forests that are only 100 kilometers apart may differ in 80 percent of their plant species. This program includes organizations focusing on species conservation such as Hirola Conservation Programme and Zambian Carnivore Programme.
East African Species
Eastern Africa is home to unique ecosystems, such as the Eastern Afromontane, which hosts a multitude of endemic species not found anywhere else in the world, many critically endangered or vulnerable. However, the region faces severe challenges, including deforestation, wetland draining, and other habitat destruction, driven by rapid population growth, urbanization, and agricultural expansion. As human populations expand, conflicts between people and wildlife (like elephants raiding crops or lions preying on livestock) also pose major threats to wildlife. Wildlife tourism is a major revenue generator for several Eastern African countries. Protecting species ensures the continued viability of this industry, which supports local economies and funds conservation efforts.
