But the peculiar thing about this road is that it is not a case of animals versus people. There is an alternative — a road to the south of the park that would connect five times more people, and cost less to build. It would also be easier, since the landscape there is flatter; and it would not affect the animal migrations. And the northern road has been vigorously rejected on environmental grounds before.
Even more peculiar: up to now, the government of Tanzania has had an outstanding record of conservation. Around a quarter of the country’s area is managed with a view to preserving wildlife, and at 50,000 square kilometers (almost 20,000 square miles) the Selous Game Reserve is the largest protected area in Africa. Tanzania boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, of which four are nature reserves — including the Serengeti National Park.
Moreover, the president of Tanzania, Dr. Jakaya Kikwete, is known for his interest in nature. When six black rhinos arrived in the Serengeti in May — they were flown in from South Africa as part of a rhino relocation program — the president himself was there to meet them, and he has often spoken of the importance of the parks to Tanzania. Indeed, he sometimes quotes Tanzania’s first president, Julius Nyerere:
“The survival of our wildlife is a matter of grave concern to all of us in Africa. These wild creatures amid the wild places they inhabit are not only important as a resource of wonder and inspiration but are an integral part of our natural resources and our future livelihood and wellbeing. In accepting the trusteeship of our wildlife we solemnly declare that we will do everything in our power to make sure that our children’s grand-children will be able to enjoy this rich and precious heritage.”
It is not clear why the Serengeti road is being considered: I was unable to reach anyone in the Tanzanian government who would comment. But what is clear is that one of the most marvelous and awe-inspiring sights on the planet might soon vanish, killed by a road.
