Lions in the Wild Are Now Extinct in Over Half of African Countries

On World Lion Day, it is reported that Africa’s most iconic species are already extinct in 26 of the 48 African countries, with wild populations surviving in only 7% of their historic range. Habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, poaching, and snaring are among the key drivers of this crisis. For centuries the African lion has symbolised strength, courage and leadership, deeply rooted in African culture, identity and spirituality. Wild Africa is emphasising the urgency of protecting wild lions through integrated solutions that support both the animals and local communities.

According to LionAid’s 2025 Synthesis of Lion Numbers in Africa, the population of wild lions is perilously low. Although exact numbers are difficult to confirm, an estimated 13,014 lions are left in eastern and southern Africa, and only 342 in western and central Africa—regions where populations are genetically distinct and under even greater threat.

Separate data compiled by the IUCN List of Endangered Species confirm that lion populations continue to decline. The species recovery status is ‘Largely Depleted’ and they have a recovery score of just 23% -33%.

The primary cause is habitat loss. Lions once roamed from Europe to the southern tip of Africa and from West Africa east to India, but human settlement expansion, agriculture, infrastructure, and land-use have drastically reduced their range to only 7%. Habitat degradation also affects the availability of wild prey. A recent study published in Conservation Science and Practice found that prey-depleted ecosystems are a major contributor to lion population declines.

Other threats include:
● Human-wildlife conflict: Lions are often killed to protect livestock or in retaliation for perceived threats.
● Poaching: Lions are hunted for body parts including their bones, claws, teeth, fat and skin, used in traditional medicine or sold in illegal markets.
● Snaring: Non-selective wire snares, intended for bushmeat, often trap, injure and kill lions. It also contributes to the loss of prey.

Lions are critically important for the health and balance of entire ecosystems. As a keystone species, their protection helps sustain the diversity of life – from plants and trees to the animals that depend on them. Additionally, lions are among the most sought-after wildlife by safari tourists. Wildlife tourism contributes 8.5% of Africa’s GDP with around 80% of international visitors citing wildlife as their primary reason for traveling to the continent. With mounting threats and concerning recovery rates, it has never been more important to implement effective conservation efforts to protect Africa’s wild lions. An integrated approach that prioritises habitat preservation, community engagement, improved law enforcement against wildlife crimes, and sustainable tourism can turn the tide for these animals. The public can play a vital role too, from reporting wildlife crime and conserving natural habitats to visiting national parks, where entry fees directly support rangers
and conservation projects.

Time is running out for Africa’s lions, and their survival is in our hands. This World Lion Day, let’s work together to raise awareness, ensure lions continue to roam free, and keep their roar echoing across the continent for generations to come.

Media contact: Odile Gertze, Namibian Representative for Wild Africa,

e: odile@wildafrica.org,

t: +264 (0)81 809 5108