DAR ES SALAAM, Dec. 5 -- AFRICAS top forestry and wildlife authorities have opened the 25th Session of the African Forestry and Wildlife Commission (AFWC25) and the 9th African Forestry and Wildlife Week (AFWW9) in Banjul, issuing strong calls for accelerated continental action to confront climate change, forest loss and threats to wildlife.

The week-long gathering, hosted by the government of The Gambia in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), has drawn senior policymakers, scientists, UN agencies and conservation practitioners from across Africa.

Delivering remarks on behalf of the FAO Director-General, the FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Africa, Dr Abebe Hai...