CALL FOR APPLICATIONS / EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST
SADC Wildlife‑Based Economy (WBE) Champions Training
Organising Institutions
This training opportunity is organised by the Southern African Wildlife College, in collaboration with:
- African Leadership University – School of Wildlife Conservation (ALU‑SOWC)
- Stellenbosch University – African Wildlife Economy Institute (AWEI)
With support from the German Government and the European Union through the Joint Action NaturAfrica / Climate Resilience and Natural Resource Management (C‑NRM) project, implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ).
Overview of the Opportunity
A fully‑funded opportunity is available for one (1) individual from each SADC Member State who is involved in implementing wildlife‑based economy (WBE) and livelihoods‑related projects or programmes at national level within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Selected participants will take part in a five‑day Wildlife‑Based Economy Champions Training Programme aimed at promoting knowledge sharing, collaboration, and best practices in wildlife‑based economies and livelihoods.
Purpose of the Training
The programme is designed to strengthen national capacity, cross‑sectoral collaboration, and leadership in advancing wildlife‑based economic development, value chains, and sustainable livelihoods across SADC Member States.
Specifically, the training aims to:
- Build a cadre of national champions able to drive implementation of wildlife‑based economy strategies in collaboration with governments
- Strengthen coordination between environment, wildlife, trade, tourism, and economic development sectors
- Support Member States in translating wildlife resources into inclusive economic opportunities, while promoting sustainability and conservation
Important Dates and Information
- Application Closing Date: 28 April 2026
- Announcement of Selected Candidates: 07 May 2026
- Programme Dates: 27 – 31 July 2026
- Venue: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Language: English (with translation into SADC Official Languages)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be working with or for a Non‑Governmental Organisation (NGO), Community‑Based Organisation/Association, or private‑sector entity, actively engaged in wildlife‑based economy initiatives at national level
- Be actively involved in the design, implementation, or oversight of wildlife‑based economy or biodiversity economy initiatives
- Demonstrate alignment with national development priorities, biodiversity economy strategies, or sectoral plans
- Be available to participate in pre‑training and post‑training virtual meetings, comprising a minimum of four (4) sessions of two (2) hours each between May and October 2026
- Clearly articulate how participation will strengthen national or regional wildlife‑based economic outcomes
- Have no criminal record
- Be in possession of a valid passport to travel to South Africa, valid for at least six (6) months from the programme start date
Note: Visa costs will be covered by the participant’s organisation.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- A completed online application form
- A summarised organisational strategy demonstrating alignment with the SADC Wildlife‑Based Economy Strategy or national biodiversity economy priorities
- Contactable reference(s) (email and telephone) from a credible organisation or government official in the applicant’s country of operation
- A copy of a valid passport, showing validity of at least six (6) months from the programme start date
Selection Criteria
Applications will be assessed using the following criteria:
- Relevance and alignment (40%)
Demonstrated ability and proven record of applying and amplifying the Wildlife‑Based Economy concept at national level, aligned to national plans and strategic frameworks - Diversity and inclusion
Consideration of representation of women and youth - Motivation and preparedness
Demonstrated self‑motivation to undertake a learning experience outside the home country and prior knowledge of the SADC Wildlife‑Based Economy Strategy
General Rules
- Only correctly and fully completed application forms, accompanied by all required supporting documents, will be considered
Support Provided
Successful candidates will receive the following support (Terms and Conditions apply):
- Return airfare to South Africa (O.R. Tambo International Airport)
- Accommodation and meals for the duration of the training
Enquiries
For enquiries only, please contact:
- Dr. Thabang Teffo – [email protected]
- Ms. Mara Gellner – [email protected]
How to Apply
Interested and eligible candidates should complete the Online Application Form and submit their application by 28 April 2026 at 16:00 (SAST).
We look forward to receiving Expressions of Interest from qualified stakeholders committed to advancing wildlife‑based economies and sustainable livelihoods within the SADC region.