Biodiversity Assessment for Spatial Prioritization in Africa (BASPA)

Abstract

The African continent is home to high biodiversity, consisting of eight of the 36 global biodiversity hotspots. However, many African countries have lagged behind in mobilising foundational biodiversity data for spatial prioritisation in comparison to countries in other continents. More so, even in countries where such data exist, there is still a huge divide between foundational biodiversity data availability and mainstreaming of such information into country policies, planning and decision-making processes. Therefore, the current project seeks to first, empower African countries to generate foundational biodiversity data through the red listing of species, ecosystems and the identification of Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs). Second, through rigorous stakeholder engagements and training, make sure the data generated is mainstreamed into government decision making processes. Last, together with country focal person(s), raise the required funding to implement this project. To do this, first, we conducted an African wide analysis to determine countries with high diversity, taking into account species richness and endemism. Following this analysis, pilot countries in both the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) east and southern African, and west and central African regions were selected. Second, we evaluated project implementation success by testing two models – government versus NGO led models. Preliminary results of this analysis, project implementation models and the applications of the data generated at country level will be discussed in line with policy and decision making.