Race to save cheetahs accelerates

As the world marked International Cheetah Day on 4 December, conservationists sounded alarm over the rapid decline of one of Africa’s most iconic species. Namibia, hailed as the “Cheetah Capital of the World,” is home to roughly 1 500 to 2 000 of the planet’s remaining 7 500 wild cheetahs. Yet these iconic predators are racing toward extinction as human activity and habitat loss push them ever closer to the brink.Globally, cheetahs are listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, with two subspecies classified as Critically Endangered. They are also protected under international law, including the US Endangered Species Act and Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Wild Africa said in a statement that despite these protections, the world’s fastest land animal continues to face multiple threats, from shrinking habitats and prey depletion to poaching and the illegal exotic pet trade.In Namibia, most cheetahs roam outside national parks, living on farmland or private property. It said that this puts them in frequent conflict with livestock farmers, while natural challenges from lions, hyenas, and leopards add further pressure. Cheetahs also have low reproductive success, with wild females producing an average of only 1.7 cubs to adulthood, making population growth difficult.“With fewer than 7,500 cheetahs left worldwide, it is vital we end the illicit pet trade and safeguard remaining habitat. These predators are not pets—they need protection, not persecution, said CEO of Wild Arica, Peter Knights. It said that hope comes from organisations like the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF), headquartered in Namibia. Through research, education, and innovative farming partnerships, CCF promotes human-cheetah coexistence. It's Livestock Guarding Dog Programme, which places Anatolian shepherd and Kangal dogs with farmers, has successfully reduced livestock predation without harming cheetahs. CCF also trains farmers in wildlife-friendly practices and supports alternative livelihoods through ventures like the Dancing Goat Creamery.“The cheetah’s survival is a race against time that demands immediate attention. Every passing moment brings us closer to the point of no return,” said Dr. Laurie Marker, founder and executive director of CCF. With global awareness growing on International Cheetah Day, Namibia’s conservation efforts highlight both the challenges and solutions to saving one of Africa’s most endangered big cats.

Race to save cheetahs accelerates

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-29

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Race to save cheetahs accelerates

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Namibian Sun 2026-01-29

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