Ghana formally joins International Big Cat Alliance to strengthen wildlife conservation
Story by: Regina Bless
Ghana has formally joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), marking a significant step towards strengthening wildlife conservation and protecting endangered big cat species.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed this at the conclusion of the official visit to Ghana by India’s External Affairs Minister, His Excellency Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar.
Hon. Ablakwa presented the signed agreement and instrument of acceptance to Dr. Jaishankar at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Accra on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, formalising Ghana’s participation in the international conservation initiative.
The International Big Cat Alliance, initiated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023, seeks to promote the protection and conservation of major big cat species, including lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, pumas and cheetahs. The initiative aims to strengthen international cooperation in addressing threats to wildlife and preserving biodiversity.
According to Hon. Ablakwa, President John Dramani Mahama is committed to expanding Ghana’s wildlife reserves, preventing the extinction of big cat species, combating poaching, revitalising the country’s zoos and positioning Ghana as a leading destination for wildlife conservation.
Ghana’s membership in the IBCA is expected to create opportunities for greater collaboration with international partners in wildlife protection, conservation research and the exchange of expertise.
The move also underscores Ghana’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage and supporting global efforts to preserve biodiversity for future generations.
As the country works towards strengthening its conservation infrastructure, the government’s priorities will include protecting wildlife habitats, improving conservation facilities and promoting sustainable wildlife tourism.
Ghana’s formal entry into the alliance therefore represents an opportunity to reinforce its environmental commitments while contributing to international efforts to safeguard threatened big cat species and their ecosystems.