Lawmaker is in Africa with President Obama to visit Kenya and Ethiopia, attend Global Entrepreneurship Summit

Nairobi (July 25, 2015) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass), top Democrat on the Africa and Global Health Subcommittee, released the following statement on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s proposed final Ivory Rule specific to the African elephant under Section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act. The United States is the globe’s second largest market for illegal wildlife products, such as ivory. Last week, Senator Markey’s Africa and Global Health subcommittee held a hearing on illegal wildlife trafficking and discussed solutions to the global issue.  

“Iconic and imperiled wildlife like the African elephant are on the brink of extinction and face increasing threats from well-armed, equipped and trained violent poachers. I applaud President Obama, Secretary Jewell and Director Ashe for their responsible leadership and efforts to combat wildlife trafficking that threatens the national and economic security of African nations. I look forward to working with African leaders to find innovative ways to help protect their wildlife and support their people.”

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