Why IAS management in East and Southern Africa matters

Invasive species are one of the five major drivers of biodiversity loss globally, alongside land and sea-use changes, direct exploitation of organisms, climate change and pollution. These species disrupt local ecosystems, threatening food systems, water resources and Indigenous traditions.

Unchecked, IAS cause major economic losses. The global economic cost of IAS was estimated at over US$ 423 billion in 2019, quadrupling every decade since 1970.

IAS disrupt food and water security. Invasive plants obstruct irrigation systems, while species like the Nile perch (Lates niloticus) have devastated local fisheries.

IAS weaken Indigenous traditions and livelihoods. By displacing native plants and animals, IAS erode traditional ways of life and make it harder for communities to sustain their heritage.

IAS undermine climate resilience. Some invasive species reduce carbon storage, degrade soil health and interfere with pollination, making climate change impacts worse.

Early detection and public awareness are crucial. A well-developed public awareness strategy can enhance risk assessments and early detection efforts, reducing long-term economic, environmental and social costs.

Why the sustainable use of wildlife in East and Southern Africa matters

More than 50,000 wild species worldwide are used for food, medicine and raw materials. If managed responsibly, sustainable use can strengthen biodiversity, support economic well-being and reinforce community resilience.

Biodiversity sustains livelihoods. One in five people relies on wild species for income and food, while 2.4 billion depend on wood fuel.

Wildlife tourism is a major economic driver. In 2018, wildlife tourism contributed US$ 120 billion to the global GDP, benefiting economies in East and Southern Africa.

Sustainable use safeguards Indigenous knowledge. Many Indigenous Peoples and local communities see biodiversity not just as nature, but as part of their identity and traditions.

Ecosystem health depends on sustainable practices. Biodiversity supports essential processes like soil renewal, water regulation and climate adaptation, keeping ecosystems resilient to climate change.

How IAS and the sustainable use of wildlife are connected

Invasive alien species pose a significant threat to the sustainable use of wildlife by damaging ecosystems, reducing biodiversity and disrupting essential services that communities rely on. In Lake Victoria, the spread of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) has obstructed waterways, severely impacting fisheries and local livelihoods. Similarly, the fall armyworm outbreak in Southern Africa has devastated crops, threatening both agricultural production and food security.

Addressing these challenges requires cross-sectoral approaches that focus on preventing the introduction of IAS, controlling their spread and restoring affected ecosystems. By integrating IAS management with sustainable use strategies, we can protect biodiversity, support livelihoods and maintain the ecosystem services that communities and economies depend on.

The Tree of Life metaphor

Biodiversity conservation is a dynamic, interconnected process – much like a living tree. Strong roots of knowledge, a resilient trunk of policy and branching actions for sustainability all work together to bear the fruits of conservation success. The Trialogue serves as a space where these elements converge, creating a foundation for collective action and lasting impact.

The infographic below illustrates this concept, showing how different elements – knowledge, policies, collaboration and action – intertwine to shape biodiversity conservation efforts.