Background

Wildlife for Sustainable Development (WSD) is an Ethiopian non-governmental organization dedicated to conserving the country’s rich biodiversity through promoting the sustainable utilization and scientific study of wildlife and their habitats. WSD works with the government, related non government and private sector organizations and local communities to formulate and implement conservation strategies.

The organization was founded in 2008 and has a diverse range of members including researchers, educators, governmental and non-governmental organisations as well as private conservation groups. The General Assembly is the highest authoritative body for the organization with a president and a secretary, but the duties and responsibilities of the WSD are closely governed by its five person Board that includes the chairperson, deputy chairperson, and three other members.

Mission

• To advance the practice of conserving and sustainably utilizing Ethiopia’s wildlife resources.

Vision

• To ensure the people of Ethiopia understand, value, and conserve the diversity of wildlife and the areas they occupy.
• To be a respected organization committed towards the conservation of Ethiopia’s wildlife.

Organizational Focus

• The close attachment and interaction of humans with wildlife and the complex ecosystem.
• The undesirable degradation of wildlife areas, extinction of species and the destruction or loss of functionality of natural ecosystems.
• Maintenance and restoration of biodiversity
• Economic benefits from the sustainable utilisation of natural resources through ecotourism development,
• sustainable cropping, wildlife farms and ranches.
• Partnership with government to assist in developing policies and management plans affecting wildlife conservation.