So... what can be done?
1) Monitor and respond to any trafficking :
African Governments should work with CITES to obtain DNA samples from all illegal horn seizures to help track them back so legal action can be taken against both buyer and seller.
2) Remove demand :
A proactive campaign is needed to convince people in China and Vietnam, the biggest buyers of rhino horn, that it has no significant medicinal value and to stigmatise the purchase of rhino horn.
3) International pressure on governments :
Governments of all rhino range states and consumer countries, as well as international agencies like the African Union, United Nations, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and China in Africa Forum must be persuaded to make and implement commitments to save rhinos. Measures could include outreach, education, awareness raising, law enforcement and legislation.
4) Get involved :
Join veterinary wildlife conservation projects as a student and work alongside top wildlife vets in the protection of wild species (www.conservationafrica.net) and if you’re already a qualified vet, join www.wildlifevetsinternational.org to make a difference to these species first-hand or volunteer with https://wvs.org.uk/work-with-us/volunteer-trips and make a difference to animal welfare worldwide!
Author: Nessie Riley, IVSA SCAW Publications Officer
credit : Ami Vitale