2026/018: Third Meeting of Range States of the Joint CITES-CMS African Carnivores Initiative (ACI3): 7 – 9 December 2026 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Invitation to Observers to Express their Interest in Attending the Meeting

1. The third meeting of the African Carnivores Initiative is scheduled to take place from 7 – 9 December 2026 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe (venue: TBC). The meeting seeks to bring together representatives of all countries that are Range States to one or more of the four species currently covered by the ACI, i.e., African Lion (Panthera leo), Leopard (P. pardus), Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), and African Wild Dog (Lycaon pictus) as well as relevant observer organizations. 
    
2. The main objective of the meeting is for Range States to review the ACI Programme of Work (a revised draft version will be posted prior to the meeting), discuss conservation issues specific to the species covered by the ACI, and operational matters for the future of the ACI (including its governance, modus operandi, and funding).
    
3. Range States of the species listed above, as well as the Striped Hyaena (Hyaena hyaena) have been invited to the meeting through invitation letters sent to CMS Focal Points and CITES Management Authorities with the Scientific Authorities in copy. If a Range State has not received the invitation, please reach out to Mr Nathan Mesnildrey through e-mail: [email protected].
    
4. Observer organizations, including non-Parties, non-Range States Parties, United Nations and its specialized agencies, intergovernmental organizations, non-governmental organizations, and private sector organizations, directly involved in activities that support Range States in the implementation of the activities contained in the ACI Programme of Work (POW), experts in the specific areas of work covered by the POW, and institutions funding the ACI through the CITES and CMS Secretariats or through activities contained in the POW are invited to express their interest in attending the meeting. Observers interested in attending should register online through the following link on the CMS website not later than Friday, 30 October 2026.
    
5. Observers are requested to submit with their online registration a short supporting statement (maximum 200 words) containing information relating to the activities in the ACI POW that they are supporting Range States to implement, specific areas of expertise relevant to the POW or details on the activities contained in the POW that they fund. 
    
6. Please note that in line with CITES and CMS practice, participation by observers will be limited to ensure a balance between Range States and observers participating in the meeting. Observer organizations are therefore encouraged to collaborate and consolidate their representation. The Secretariats will confirm admissions to the meeting after close of registrations for observers (30 October 2026).