WAZA Welcomes New Member – The African Association for Wildlife in Human Care (AAWHC)
Posted: 4 February 2026
The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is pleased to welcome the African Association for Wildlife in Human Care (AAWHC) as a new Association Member.
The African Association for Wildlife in Human Care represents zoos, aquaria and wildlife facilities across Africa committed to high standards of animal welfare, conservation and public education. Established to strengthen ethical and professional practice on the continent, AAWHC supports accreditation, capacity building and knowledge exchange among its members.
WAZA CEO Dr Martín Zordan said, “The African Association for Wildlife in Human Care demonstrates how African institutions can join forces to strengthen standards in wildlife care and conservation, bringing their collective expertise to the global community.”
By providing a unified African voice within the global zoo and aquarium community, the Association works to advance conservation-focused wildlife care aligned with international standards.
Tracy Rehse, Chairperson of the Board of the African Association for Wildlife in Human Care, said: “We are proud to be a member of WAZA. As a young and growing association, our commitment to global standards is fundamental, and our WAZA membership makes this possible. We are “Rooted in Africa, aligned with the world.””
More information about the African Association for Wildlife in Human Care may be found on their website.
The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, zoos and aquariums, dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats around the world.