Nairobi, Kenya – The Somali Embassy in Nairobi has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Africa’s biodiversity by strengthening cooperation with the Lusaka Agreement Task Force (LATF), the continent’s intergovernmental organization dedicated to fighting wildlife crime.
On Thursday, the Embassy welcomed LATF Director Edward Phiri for high-level discussions focused on intelligence sharing, joint operations, and policy support. The engagement underscored Somalia’s growing role in regional conservation and its determination to tackle transnational wildlife crime networks that exploit porous borders and fragile ecosystems.
Ambassadorial staff highlighted Somalia’s ongoing efforts to align with continental and global frameworks combating illegal poaching, trafficking, and the destruction of natural habitats.
“Protecting biodiversity is not only an environmental duty but also a matter of national and regional security,” the Embassy noted in a statement, stressing that wildlife crime often fuels organized criminal syndicates.
Phiri welcomed Somalia’s proactive approach, pledging LATF’s full support in capacity-building, intelligence coordination, and strengthening cross-border enforcement measures. He emphasized that combating wildlife crime requires collective action, noting that organized networks target species ranging from elephants and rhinos to rare birds and marine life.
The meeting builds on Somalia’s broader environmental agenda, including its recent initiatives on climate resilience and natural resource management. It also positions the country as a committed partner in Africa’s united front against illegal trade threatening endangered species and ecosystems.
Both sides agreed to continue structured consultations and explore joint training programs for Somali law enforcement and customs officials.
With this renewed partnership, Somalia and LATF aim to advance not only biodiversity protection but also sustainable development and security across the Horn of Africa and beyond.