Green Growth Africa, a leading UNEP-accredited NGO, has announced the establishment of EcoJustice Africa, an initiative aimed at holding violators of environmental laws accountable and combating the rise of environmental crimes across the continent.
Speaking at a pre-launch press conference, Dr. Adedoyin Adeleke, Executive Director of Green Growth Africa, described environmental crimes as the world’s fourth-largest form of organized crime, following drug trafficking, counterfeiting, and human trafficking. Quoting UNEP, Adeleke highlighted that these crimes cost Africa approximately $195 billion annually — over ten times Nigeria’s total 2024 budget.
“Environmental crimes are not just crimes against nature; they are crimes against humanity. They destroy ecosystems, fuel corruption, and weaken the rule of law while robbing developing nations of billions in potential revenue and opportunities,” Adeleke said.
Africa, home to a quarter of the world’s mammal species, a fifth of its bird species, and a sixth of its forests, faces significant threats from illegal mining, wildlife trafficking, logging, and hazardous waste dumping. These violations disproportionately affect marginalized communities, compounding poverty and undermining livelihoods.
Adeleke noted that the ecological damage caused by such activities often leads to disasters like droughts, which are inaccurately labeled as “natural.” “There are no natural disasters, only nature-based disasters caused by human actions,” he explained.
Introducing EcoJustice Africa’s Framework
EcoJustice Africa seeks to address these challenges through a citizen-driven, tech-enabled approach underpinned by seven solution pillars:
- Citizen Empowerment – Training individuals to act as environmental activists.
- Digital Innovation – Leveraging technology to report and track environmental crimes.
- Data Verification – Ensuring accurate, actionable information.
- Stakeholder Engagement – Collaborating with governments, communities, and organizations.
- Evidence-based Advocacy – Using research to influence change.
- Data-Driven Policy Engagement – Informing legislative reforms.
- Strategic Litigation – Prosecuting offenders to uphold environmental justice.
“This initiative empowers communities to claim their right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment, amplifying their voices through digital tools and strategic advocacy,” Adeleke said.
A Call to Action
Dr. Adeleke urged stakeholders across sectors to join the fight against environmental crimes. “Governments must strengthen regulatory frameworks and enforce penalties for violations. Civil society should amplify grassroots efforts, while the private sector can support the expansion of EcoJustice Africa’s initiatives. Media organizations must spotlight these critical issues to foster awareness and drive collective action,” he stated.
EcoJustice Africa’s launch marks a significant step in addressing Africa’s environmental challenges, aiming to create a just and sustainable future for the continent.
