Natural Heritage Is a Trust for Future Generations, EWCA Chief Says as Ethiopia Marks 60 Years of Conservation

Addis Ababa, July 21, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia is undertaking effective measures to strengthen natural resource conservation and development efforts aimed at handing over a better country to future generations, Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) Director General Kumera Wakjira said.

The remarks were made during the 60th anniversary celebration of the Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority, marking six decades of conservation leadership. The event was attended by President Taye Atske Selassie, former Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn, senior government officials, representatives of international organizations and invited guests.

Kumera said nature is not only a resource bestowed upon the current generation but also a trust and responsibility that must be protected and passed on to future generations.

He emphasized that conserving natural resources is not an option but a duty, noting that Ethiopia’s mountains, vast river basins, wetlands, deep gorges and lakes represent key features of the country’s rich biodiversity.

The Director General highlighted that unique wildlife species, including the Walia ibex, Ethiopian wolf and gelada baboon, along with diverse bird species and flora, represent Ethiopia’s ecological identity and serve as important assets for economic development, particularly through tourism.

He said wildlife conservation in Ethiopia has deep roots beyond modern institutional structures, with indigenous knowledge, cultural traditions and community-based conservation practices providing the foundation for today’s conservation efforts.

Kumera noted that Ethiopia’s modern conservation journey, which began six decades ago with only two national parks, has now expanded to more than 30 national parks across the country.

He added that the country has established more than 106 wildlife conservation areas and sanctuaries, creating a broader foundation for biodiversity protection and sustainable management of natural resources.

The Authority’s Director General said Ethiopia has developed a comprehensive conservation system based on protected area management, national park development, biodiversity protection, eco-tourism development and meaningful community participation.

He explained that recent efforts have focused on strengthening protected area management, increasing local community involvement, improving tourism infrastructure and integrating modern digital technologies into conservation activities, including field monitoring.

Reflecting on the six-decade journey of the Authority, Kumera described the milestone as “60 years of hope, 60 years of sacrifice, 60 years of history and 60 years of responsibility carried for the next generation.”

Looking ahead, he said expanding the use of modern technologies, ensuring local communities become key owners and beneficiaries of conservation initiatives, strengthening partnerships and advancing scientific research will remain central priorities for future conservation efforts.

He reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to safeguarding Ethiopia’s natural heritage and ensuring that the country’s biodiversity continues to provide lasting benefits for current and future generations.