Our work is underpinned by three core approaches: research and conservation evidence; protection and management to safeguard species and habitats; and strengthening local capacity.
Our Approach
Our conservation strategy revolves around Africa's extraordinary amphibians, utilising them as key indicators of ecosystem vitality and adaptability. We understand the pivotal role amphibians play in gauging ecosystem well-being. Rather than concentrating solely on individual species, our approach takes a comprehensive stance, regarding amphibians as representatives of entire ecosystems. Through rigorous research and vigilant monitoring, we gain invaluable insights that guide our conservation efforts.
Conservation Evidence
30% of southern Africa’s amphibians are of conservation concern. However, even basic information about distributions and threat status are lacking, reflecting the dire state of conservation planning for frogs across many parts of Africa. Limited research capacity in Africa means that information generated by the public will be invaluable for informing conservation planning, while also inspiring appreciation for African amphibians.
It is essential to monitor both priority species and habitats to gauge the effectiveness of conservation interventions. By feeding monitoring information back into management plans, we aim to inform best-practice conservation interventions and build a portfolio of conservation evidence for the region
Landscape-level Resilience Management
Effective habitat protection stands as the cornerstone of amphibian conservation efforts, driving the most significant improvements in status since 1980. However, reliance solely on protected area expansion or other conservation measures may fall short, necessitating a focus on halting habitat destruction and degradation.
Historically, amphibians have usually been overlooked in protected area creation. Moreover, the looming threats of climate change demand a broader approach beyond habitat protection alone. Integration of the wider landscape is imperative to ensure connectivity and facilitate dispersal in the face of global change scenarios.
Amidst these challenges, the urgency for amphibian conservation becomes increasingly apparent. The survival of amphibians depends on collective action to address habitat loss, pollution, and disease spread, safeguarding these vital contributors to biodiversity.
Anura Africa strategically positions itself within the Conservation Landscape, committed to conserving Africa's amphibians, strengthening local capacity, and ultimately, saving species.
Strengthening Local Capacity
We recognise that strengthening local conservation and research capacity is critical to meeting the conservation challenges in safeguarding Africa's amphibians. Our approach extends beyond traditional conservation methods, emphasizing the empowerment of communities to become stewards of biodiversity. Through citizen science initiatives we will equip local people and organisations with the knowledge and tools necessary to understand and protect freshwater ecosystems, thereby also supporting human health.
Through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts, we foster a collective commitment to mitigating key threats. We aim to strengthen capacity through mentorship and building a network of in-country partners in South Africa and other African countries. By empowering communities and building local capacity, we lay the foundation for sustainable conservation practices that ensure the long-term survival of Africa's amphibians and the ecosystems they inhabit. Anura Africa remains steadfast in its dedication to conservation, prioritizing the empowerment of local communities as essential partners in the fight to save species and protect biodiversity for generations to come.