AWEI's theory of change
& impact reports

Our theory of change is aligned with the strategic priorities of Stellenbosch University. It is grounded in the view that people and wildlife can both do well when local economies benefit from healthy ecosystems. 

Further below are links to our annual impact reports.

Vision – Resilient landscapes

Socio-ecological landscapes across Africa are restored, sustained, and strengthened through an inclusive and responsible wildlife economy

Impact – A thriving wildlife economy

Sustainable, legal, and equitable management, use, harvesting, and trade of wild species that enable wildlife-based enterprises, products, and services

Outcomes

A. Strengthened enabling frameworks

Robust public and private policies, regulations, and governance arrangements across Africa that support and accelerate the development of a transformative wildlife economy

B. Flourishing wildlife enterprise

Diverse, sustainable, and scalable wildlife enterprises established across Africa and effectively integrated into regional and global value chains, advancing inclusive economic development

Outputs & Activities

1. Thought leadership

  • Developing strategic frameworks that ensure local relevance, continental influence, and global resonance to drive transformative change
  • Shaping the wildlife-economy research agenda through meaningful stakeholder engagement
  • Leading public discourse and policy dialogue to elevate the wildlife economy in decision-making and public understanding

2. Purposeful partnerships

  • Fostering strong, impactful relationships with wildlife enterprises and government agencies at all levels
  • Engaging communities within socio-ecological landscapes to advance both environmental stewardship and economic opportunity
  • Building effective collaborations and networks with universities, research institutions, and organisations across Africa and beyond

3. Collaborative learning

  • Providing an interdisciplinary learning platform that catalyses transformative research and innovation
  • Expanding Stellenbosch University’s wildlife-economy curriculum and knowledge base to serve emerging student and professional markets
  • Cultivating an entrepreneurial culture that drives innovation in wildlife enterprise - from the University to partners across the continent