The Highlands of Ethiopia are one of the few areas left on the planet (approximately 2% of the earth’s land mass) where there is a large percentage of endemic species and rich biological areas. The International Fund for Africa believes it is very important to preserve this incredible biodiversity and conserve the Ethiopia’s natural resources and wildlife in a way that would enhance sustainable development.

In 2007 IFA President, Anteneh Roba, and Vice-President, Seble Nebiyelul, visited Ethiopia together with an international conservationist. They met with government officials including the Deputy Prime Minister and the head of the department responsible for wildlife preservation and the director of the Frankfurt Zoological Society which is also working to preserve Ethiopian wildlife. While there they also visited the Bale National Park, the Senkell Hartbeast Sanctuary, Awash National Park and the Shalla and Abiata National Parks and met with the parks' wardens. Meaningful discussions were held with all so these individuals to determine a course of action that the IFA could take to improve wildlife preservation. During the visit, video footage was shot for the production of a documentary to demonstrate the plight of wildlife and endangered species in the country and garner support for the International Fund for Africa efforts in the United States and around the world.

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Based on this visit and the discussions, it was determined that the existing national parks can be made eco-tourism friendly by implementing a program that would

1. Improve the conditions of existing national parks;
2. Support local and surrounding communities by creating jobs for locals and improving the infrastructure;
3. Increase government revenue through tourism;
4. Improve local economies with an infusion of tourism dollars.

You are invited to join us in improving the environment to prevent the extinction of the endangered species in Ethiopia. Please make your donation today by clicking on donate. No amount is too small. All gifts are greatly appreciated.