The 23rd African Wildlife Consultative Forum (AWCF) is set to take place from 22 to 26 September 2025 at the breathtaking Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya Resort in Livingstone, Zambia. As the flagship conservation event of Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) in Africa, AWCF has, for over two decades, served as a cornerstone for collaborative wildlife policy development across Africa. This year’s forum is proudly supported by the Hunter Legacy Fund (HLF), whose commitment to sustainable conservation continues to empower African voices and solutions.
With registration closing at the end of August, stakeholders from across the continent and beyond are encouraged to secure their place at this landmark event.
A Legacy of Impact
Since its inception in 2002, AWCF has grown into a premier platform for African conservation leaders, government officials, researchers, and community representatives to engage in meaningful dialogue and shape the future of wildlife management. The 2025 edition marks a significant milestone—23 years of fostering unity, innovation, and action in the conservation space.
Hosted in partnership with the Zambian Department of National Parks and Wildlife, this year’s forum will feature a robust agenda of expert-led sessions, working groups, and strategic planning meetings, all aimed at strengthening Africa’s conservation landscape.
Strategic Preparation for CITES CoP 20
A key focus of AWCF 2025 is preparing for the upcoming CITES Conference of the Parties (CoP 20), to be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan later this year. CITES CoP 20 will bring together 185 member states to vote on international trade regulations for endangered species—decisions that have profound implications for African wildlife economies.
AWCF will host dedicated sessions for SADC (do we need to define SADC here?) Range States, providing a critical opportunity to finalize and align regional positions on key proposals. This coordination is essential to ensure that Africa presents a unified and influential voice at CoP 20, capable of defending sustainable use principles and community-based conservation models.
The Power of a Unified African Voice
Africa’s biodiversity is not only globally significant—it is deeply intertwined with the livelihoods of millions living in Africa’s rural communities. The AWCF recognizes that sustainable use of wildlife, including regulated hunting and trade, is a vital tool for conservation when it delivers tangible benefits to local people. By presenting a united front at CITES, African nations can advocate for policies that reflect their realities and protect their rights to manage and benefit from their natural resources.
The support of the Hunter Legacy Fund (HLF) has been instrumental in enabling this unified approach. HLF’s investment in AWCF ensures that African delegates are equipped, informed, and empowered to participate meaningfully in global conservation decision-making.
A Week of Collaboration and Culture
The forum will open with a formal ceremony featuring remarks from Zambian officials and SCIF leadership, followed by a keynote address from Hon. Rodney Shikumba, Zambia’s Minister of Tourism. Throughout the week, sessions will cover topics such as wildlife management in Zambia, international hunting regulations, and conservation strategies for iconic species like elephants, rhinos, and big cats.
Breakout working groups will tackle pressing issues including social acceptance of hunting, community conservation, and the role of wildlife in African economies. The forum will also feature cultural events, networking dinners, and a closing field trip to showcase Zambia’s conservation successes.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
The 23rd AWCF is more than a conference—it is a celebration of African leadership in conservation and a strategic step toward influencing global policy at CITES CoP 20. With the backing of SCIF and HLF, this year’s forum promises to be the most impactful yet.
Register before the end of August to be part of this transformative event. For more information, contact Dr Chris Comer, George Pangeti or Dries van Coller.
