The Okavango sustains more than a million people and is considered one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. But today, it’s at risk of ecological collapse. Here are five reasons why your donation matters to conserving this African oasis.
Number One: It brings water to millions. Each year, during the Okavango watershed, approximately 2.5 trillion gallons of water crosses three African countries: Angola, Namibia and Botswana. The water flows through regions where access to clean water is limited, particularly in surrounding areas where poverty is prevalent.
Number Two: It’s a refuge for some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. Over 2,000 species of animal and plant species make up the wildlife here, including: lions, hippos, hyenas, African wild dogs, zebra, and warthogs. The largest population of wild elephants lives in Botswana — a last remaining stronghold for this endangered species which help shape the waterways of the Okavango.
Number Three: It is considered a key biodiversity area, helping maintain the health of the planet. For this reason, many leading conservation organizations, such as The Nature Conservancy, aim their projects at conserving the biodiversity in this area.
Number Four: Overdevelopment is creating a multi-layered threat. As Angola emerges from from civil war and surrounding regions grow, the Okavango is at risk of being disrupted. Large-scale infrastructure projects divert floodwaters and unsustainable agriculture alters the landscape, forcing wildlife to move further away — tipping this ecosystem out of balance.
Number Five: There is still time. While threats remain, the Okavango has shown to be resilient. Last year, there was little change in biodiversity compared to other African rivers; a sign the delta can recover with proper management and conservation.
Want to help? Make a donation to help conserve and protect the BIODIVERSITY of this vital ecosystem. 100% of your contributions go toward organizations racing to save the Okavango.
