UNESCO has added 26 new biosphere reserves worldwide, including a landmark designation in Angola that strengthens Africa’s role in global conservation. The Quiçama Biosphere Reserve, spanning 206 kilometers of Atlantic coastline, protects elephants, manatees, sea turtles, and more than 200 bird species while supporting local communities through farming, fishing, and honey production. São Tomé and Príncipe also gained recognition, becoming the first nation entirely covered by reserves after its island of São Tomé joined Príncipe’s protected status. These designations highlight how Africa’s rich biodiversity is central to UNESCO’s mission of linking conservation with sustainable development, ecotourism, and community-led initiatives in the face of climate change.
AP
