The Republic of Zambia's newly updated law governing international wildlife trade has received formal approval from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), earning the country a "Category I" designation, the highest level of compliance under the treaty.
This recognition by the CITES Secretariat confirms that Zambia's updated legal framework fully meets international standards for regulating the trade of species ranging from hippos to succulents, ensuring that such trade is both lawful and sustainable.
Previously listed as "Category II," Zambia's elevation to Category I reflects a significant milestone in strengthening its conservation governance and aligning its policies with global best practices. The designation places Zambia alongside countries like the United States in fully implementing CITES requirements.
Safari Club International (SCI) commends this achievement, which underscores Zambia's continued leadership in science-based wildlife management and sustainable use conservation. The success is a testament to the efforts of Zambia's Minister of Tourism, Hon. Rodney Sikumba—SCI's International Legislator of the Year—and his team of conservation professionals.
"SCI appreciates the Zambia Ministry of Tourism's ongoing commitment to protecting Zambia's natural assets while advancing responsible tourism growth," said SCI CEO W. Laird Hamberlin. "We congratulate Hon. Minister Sikumba and his team for these achievements. SCI is honored to partner with Zambia in promoting sustainable use wildlife conservation and community empowerment."
Zambia's Category I designation also reinforces its strong standing with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which has consistently recognized the country's well-managed conservation programs benefiting species protected under the Endangered Species Act.
CITES, an international agreement with 185 Parties, ensures that trade in listed species is conducted sustainably and legally. Zambia's updated law—and its resulting Category I status—demonstrates the country's commitment to meeting and exceeding those standards.