Empowering African Leadership with 'Numbers for Nature'

A regional version of CSF’s flagship Economics & Finance for Environmental Leadership course for Africa-based conservationists.

Since 1998, Conservation Strategy Fund’s unique and effective training program has given over 7,000 environmental professionals the economic knowledge, skills, and language to communicate effectively with decision-makers. Our courses are taught by experts who understand how economics and finance can advance environmental goals in practical, strategic ways. 

Africa’s natural heritage, from its iconic wildlife to its vast rangelands and marine ecosystems, is the heartbeat of the continent’s economy. This course reframes the narrative that conservation is only a “cost”, into the more economically-sound truth that conservation initiatives can be the most cost-effective investment in a resilient future for the Continent. We provide environmental professionals with the economic knowledge and strategic language to communicate effectively with decision-makers, and prove that nature is Africa's greatest strategic investment.

We invite dedicated professionals from across the continent to join us in South Africa for two weeks of intensive learning, networking, and peer-to-peer exchange. 

Spots are limited. Apply to join this cohort before June 17, 2026.

Details & Key Deadlines

  • Course Dates & Times

    Join us at the Southern African Wildlife College in the Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa this July 19-August 1. Instruction will take place July 20-31 with one day off on Sunday, July 26.

  • Tuition: $2,200 USD

    60% of the total cost to attend this course ($5,750 USD) has been subsidized through scholarships, thanks to the generous support of the Dry Creek Foundation. Apply before March 24 to unlock an additional 20% early bird discount - you pay only $1760 USD!

  • Apply to Join

    Space is limited, so you must complete our application before June 17, 2026 to be accepted into our course cohort. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

What does my tuition include?

Your tuition will cover all instruction, materials, meals, and on-campus lodging during the course dates, and round trip ground transportation to get to and from Johannesberg to SAWC's campus at the beginning and end of the program. Additionally, you will have access to all virtual course materials for 6 months after the conclusion of the course.

Apply to Join our Cohort

Early Bird Deadline: March 24, 2026

Due to limited space, all interested participants must submit an application to be considered for this cohort. Applications will be reviewed and accepted on a rolling basis. If accepted, you will be sent next steps to finalize your registration and submit payment. The final application deadline is June 17, 2026.

Meet some of your instructors...

Our instructors are drawn from CSF staff, as well as leading academic and international institutions such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison and Conservation Finance Alliance.


Testimonials

This course is life-changing, but don't just take our word for it!

What is the value of in-person training?

Hear reflections from our last in-person cohort, who spent two weeks at Stanford University in 2025.

Cohort Countdown

Join us in South Africa for this once-in-a-lifetime professional development opportunity!

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