Conservation in Africa today faces huge challenges. A rapidly rising human population – by 2100 Africa’s population may have quadrupled – accompanied by infrastructure development and rising levels of consumption will make it even more challenging to find room for wildlife. Harmony is yet to be found between the current pace of social and economic transformation and the conservation of Africa’s extraordinary wildlife and wild landscapes.

Thankfully, there are models that are working. Business and operating models of successful initiatives in Africa may differ, but they all rely on the same two pillars.

First is a realization that conservation only thrives when it provides economic benefits to people. This is true worldwide, but it is especially so in Africa, where poverty levels are extremely high and where population growth is the fastest. Wildlife in Africa must be developed as an economic asset that gives value to local communities and entire countries if it is to survive. Countries like Rwanda, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe and more recently Chad, Malawi and Benin have shown what happens when people are given economic benefits from conservation: wildlife populations rebound and habitat is protected.

Second is that leadership matters. In Africa, where institutions are weak, leadership and management makes much more difference in conservation outcomes than in other parts of the world. The success of a new generation of African conservation organizations and at the national level in countries like Rwanda and Botswana shows what happens when top leadership talent and good management practices are applied to conservation.

This conference explores the intersection of business, economic development and conservation. The conference seeks to open up new conversations about how to bring new entrepreneurial energy and vision to African conservation. Participants have the opportunity to engage with the most innovative work in conservation today and to hear first-hand about successful models and emerging opportunities.