The Dangers of Biodiversity Loss in Africa

Before the emergence of COVID19, there was a common misconception that the “era of infectious diseases” was history due to technological advances and the widespread use of antibiotics and vaccines. However, recent studies have pointed to the growing emergence of zoonotic pathogens, specifically in Africa. 

Key causes of new viral infections stem from areas with high population densities and frequent human interaction with wild animals. The food and agriculture system is increasingly impeding into wildlife, putting global health at risk. Rising populations in Africa are accelerating the expansion of agricultural lands and human settlements into wildlife, while simultaneously fueling the growing bushmeat market. Wet markets for these bushmeats are commonly found in Africa with limited regulations and/or resources leading to overexploitation, hunting and poaching.

Transmission of Wildlife Zoonotic Pathogens

Livestock farmers face severe pressure to meet the market demands and are highly vulnerable to potential infectious diseases. The most common emergence of pathogens from primates are known to come from bats. But, we are seeing more frequently that amplifier hosts, such as pigs and other livestock, are increasing the transmission rates to humans. With overall meat production being at an all time high, this is highly problematic.

Bushmeat has been hunted for centuries by communities who relied on it for subsistence. Bushmeat remains a vital source of food for many impoverished areas in Africa, so it is unrealistic to ban the consumption of these animals altogether. However, bushmeat is often used today to feed Africa’s wealthy urban population, shifting its original purpose of subsistence to a highly profitable commodity. 

To address the growing concern of zoonotic pathogens, there must be effective enforcement of hunting quotas. Cultural preference for the “exotic” bushmeat must also be shifted. Implementing educational programs linking bushmeat practices to zoonotic pathogens could be a start to reducing the number of wildlife animals hunted.

Website: https://www.ifpri.org/blog/africas-growing-risk-diseases-spread-animals-people

5 thoughts on “The Dangers of Biodiversity Loss in Africa

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  3. The passage addresses the misconception that technological advances and the use of antibiotics and vaccines had rendered infectious diseases a relic of the past, a notion challenged by the emergence of COVID-19. It underscores the rise of zoonotic pathogens, particularly in Africa, and attributes this trend to factors such as high population densities, human-wildlife interactions, and the expansion of agricultural lands and settlements. The discussion also highlights the impact of the bushmeat market and the role of wet markets, which operate with limited regulation, in exacerbating the issue. This comprehensive analysis provides a critical perspective on how human activities are contributing to the emergence of new viral infections, emphasizing the need for better regulation and sustainable practices. For those seeking further insights or assistance in exploring these complex issues, essaywritersworld academic help offers valuable resources and support.

  4. The protection of biodiversity in Africa is an important aspect for the conservation of nature and its inhabitants. Loss of biodiversity can negatively impact ecosystems and species, including animals that hunters often seek to find, and as a hunter who loves to hunt in Africa, I have read many books and blogs about it including https://www.agmglobalvision.com/Africa-the-dream-of-each-hunter. The conservation of Africa’s ecosystems and biodiversity is of interest to hunters, as they strive for a unique hunting experience of diverse and impressive animals. However, the conservation of these species is becoming increasingly important in light of the threats posed by biodiversity loss in the region.

  5. Nel 1905, a soli 24 anni, Wilsdorf creò a Londra un’azienda specializzata nella commercializzazione di Orologi Replica. Iniziò così ad immaginare un segnatempo che potesse essere portato al polso. Pur non garantendo gli orologi da polso una precisione molto accurata, Hans Wilsdorf riuscì a renderli non solo eleganti, ma anche affidabili.https://www.orologilusso.eu/

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