African forest elephants, ecologically distinct and vital to tropical forest ecosystems, are in crisis. Decades of accelerating poaching driven by the global ivory trade have reduced their population by over 60% in less than a decade, with range shrinking by 30%. Today, they occupy less than 25% of their historic range and represent under 10% of their potential population.
This collapse is largely tied to illegal poaching, weak governance, and insufficient law enforcement—conditions that embolden wildlife criminals. While much global attention focuses on diplomacy and trade restrictions, the true frontline lies in boots-on-the-ground conservation and meaningful habitat protection.
This crisis reinforces the value of regulated, science-based wildlife management. Legal, tightly managed hunting programs—when integrated with local communities—can provide financial incentives to protect wildlife, fund enforcement, and deter illegal killing. Forest elephants, like many species, thrive best where conservation is tied to economic value and stewardship by those who live closest to the land.
Preserving this keystone species will require bold investment in enforcement, local engagement, and a global crackdown on ivory demand. Conservation must move from theory to practice—fast—if we hope to prevent the total collapse of one of Earth’s most important megafauna.
