“Poaching is depleting our valuable natural resources, especially elephants and rhinos in our game reserves and national parks. Very unfortunately, this business involves rich people who have formed a very sophisticated network,”
These chilling words come from Tanzania’s minister for Tourism and Natural Resources, Ambassador Khamis Kagasheki, speaking at a workshop organised by Tanzania National Parks (Tanapa) workshop in Iringa.
The minister also raised concern on incidents whereby containers loaded with ivory are shipped to the Far East through the Dar es Salaam port in the presence of government-trusted officials.
“It is unconceivable for a container loaded with elephant teeth (tusks) to pass through the port in the presence of Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), customs and port officials undetected,” he said.