The illegal bushmeat trade severely threatens African savanna biodiversity, causing wildlife population declines and ecological imbalances. This crisis jeopardizes iconic species, disrupts food webs, harms tourism, and undermines sustainable hunting, costing local communities income. It also diminishes vital ecosystem services. Poverty, weak law enforcement, cultural traditions, and urban demand drive the trade. Addressing it requires engaging communities with alternative livelihoods, strengthening law enforcement, enacting policy reforms, and fostering international cooperation. An integrated approach combining conservation and community development is crucial for securing the long-term survival of savanna wildlife.
