Cecil the lion death has led to steps being made to curb trophy imports to the U.S.
Outspoken wildlife conservationist, Johnny Rodrigues, was the man who broke the news that one of Zimbabwe’s best known felines was no more…it was heart breaking for him then and even now remains frustrating because no one’s been brought to book for the crime…
The trial of Theo Bronkhorst the local hunter who led the expedition is held up in the courts. But amidst the despondency he’s found reason to smile again.
“Cecil didn’t die for a reason he died for a cause and that cause is going to happen and you are going to see a lot of laws are going to be changing. You are going to see a lot of these animals that in danger are not going to be allowed to hunt.” Johnny Rodrigues, Zimbabwe Conservation Taskforce
Taking a cue from the global outcry international organisations such as the United States Fish and Wildlife Service are moving to make it more difficult for animal trophies to be imported to the country.
A victory for Rodrigues whose three and half decades of work are finally paying off but a hammer blow for professional hunting associations and authorities who say the millions the industry generates are crucial for funding community based conservation efforts.
“We believe we have lion conservation strategy that is in place. We are working with various stakeholders and currently because of the revenues we get from lion conservation particularly from hunting itself actually assist towards improved management.” Tawanda Gotosa, Parks and Wildlife Management Authority
The authorities are doing their part including setting stiffer penalties for poachers. But as Rodrigues explained that needs to be backed up by ensuring the local communities see value from the animals they co exist with.
“We want every person that lives around the wildlife area to have a better way of life. Lets get projects started for these people and we are we are gong to start projects putting in solar energy so at least they have electricity.” Johnny Rodrigues, Zimbabwe Conservation Taskforce
Since Cecil’s slaying, the Zimbabwe Conservation Taskforce has seen an upsurge in donations and they going towards community projects. Their impact ensuring Cecil the lion, loved while alive, will never be forgotten even in death.
