Africa Archives | Limbe Wildlife Centre https://limbewildlife.org/tag/africa/ Conserving Wildlife in Cameroon Sun, 25 May 2025 10:31:19 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://limbewildlife.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/cropped-Logo-Square-large-32x32.png Africa Archives | Limbe Wildlife Centre https://limbewildlife.org/tag/africa/ 32 32 122532335 A Transnational African Zoonosis Education campaign: Raising awareness for wildlife trade-linked health risks https://limbewildlife.org/zoonoses-education-campaign/ Tue, 04 Jul 2023 09:26:14 +0000 https://limbewildlife.org/?p=14330

A Transnational African Zoonosis Education campaign: Raising awareness for wildlife trade-linked health risks

The LWC has partnered with several organisations to initiate a Transnational African Zoonoses Education Campaign. This campaign aims to raise awareness of the risks of zoonotic disease transmission and encourage lasting behavioural change. The campaign seeks to directly link wildlife conservation with public health protection through the One Health concept. 

What is a zoonotic disease?

Zoonotic diseases are infectious diseases that are transmitted between humans and animals. Some examples of zoonotic diseases include Tuberculosis, Ebola, Marburg, Monkeypox, Rabies and HIV.

What is the One Health concept?

One Health is the idea that people’s health is connected to the health of animals and the environment.

Why is zoonoses education important in Africa and Cameroon? 

Africa is facing a growing risk of outbreaks caused by zoonotic diseases. The increase in zoonotic cases may be due to several reasons. The growing population creates an increasing demand for food derived from animals – including meat from wild animals (bushmeat). Population growth is also leading to rising urbanisation and encroachment on wildlife habitats.

Despite the frequent zoonotic outbreaks from bushmeat consumption in some parts of Africa, many Cameroonians still consider monkey bushmeat a delicacy and regularly eat other types of bushmeat too.

75% of emerging infectious diseases have originated in animals or animal products – and are, therefore, zoonotic in origin. 

Why is the LWC involved in this campaign?

The LWC’s mission is to protect Cameroon’s unique wildlife by providing a sanctuary for trafficked animals, educating the public and improving local communities wellbeing. Through the One Health concept, our participation in the campaign aims to protect wildlife through education and awareness to reduce zoonotic disease spread between humans and animals.

How will this campaign help wildlife in Cameroon?

The LWC, located in the Southwest Region of Cameroon, is surrounded by unique and important biodiversity. Wildlife in the region is under threat due to human habitat encroachment and poaching. The education campaign aims to ensure the community knows the risks and consequences of the illegal wildlife trade, shifting deep-rooted beliefs and attitudes and changing long-practised behaviours.

Follow our social media channels to keep updated about the progress of this awareness campaign! If you have any questions about the campaign, feel free to reach out via email.

Please visit reliable sources such as WHO, CDC and the Alliance Against Health Risks in Wildlife Trade to learn more about zoonotic diseases and their risks to human and animal health.

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]]> 14330 Josep’s wild adventure in Cameroon https://limbewildlife.org/joseps-wild-adventure-in-cameroon/ Fri, 28 Oct 2022 11:02:41 +0000 https://limbewildlife.org/?p=14167

Volunteering at the Limbe Wildlife Centre: Josep’s wild adventure in Cameroon

Josep is a 50-year-old telecommunications engineer from Spain who came to Cameroon in June of 2022 to volunteer at the Limbe Wildlife Centre. Laura, the Fundraising and Communications Manager, caught up with him a few months later to ask about his experience!

Tell me why you chose to come to volunteer at LWC in Cameroon
I was planning to visit some countries in eastern and central Africa, precisely one not very touristy. The less information I had about it, the better. One of my friends in Barcelona told me about Cameroon some years ago, so I decided to look at the volunteering projects available.
Soon I was interested in the Limbe Wildlife Centre; even though I have no academic training with animals or primates, I’d always liked wildlife and nature. I realised it could be an excellent way to help and experience the country simultaneously.

This was Josep’s first experience working with animals

Could you tell me a bit about your experience with the project?
Although I was barely three weeks in the centre, the experience was intense. The routine was always different, and every day I learned something new. The local staff and the volunteer team took care of me from day one and facilitated my tasks in Limbe, in and out of the centre. I soon felt welcomed into the LWC family, and even though the work was challenging, I didn’t have any hard moments there.

What do you feel you contributed to the project?
In a way, I think I contributed more outside the centre than inside when I did long walks around the city in my free time.

Josep met locals that he invited to the centre to learn about conservation

At that time, many locals approached me and questioned me about what I was doing in Cameroon. I explained to them my interest in wildlife restoration and the challenge new generations face in the future. Many were teenagers and kids, and some even showed interest and visited the centre some days later. It was fantastic to bring them to the LWC to contribute to the outreach and education projects run by the centre.

What did you make of the project staff and the other volunteers you worked alongside?
One of the many things I learned in the centre is the hard work and dedication of the project staff working in the centre. When you visit places like this, people usually pay attention to the animals but miss the many hours and resources that go into a place like the LWC. When you work there, you realise how challenging it is. Both volunteers from abroad and local workers had excellent skills and capacities, which are essential when dealing with a powerful primate.

Did you have a favourite section at the centre – and why?
Quarantine was the place I liked most. There were my favourite animals, such as a baby chimp and a baby drill. Here I also enjoyed working with Killi, a wise and tireless man who always had time and answers for me, and Queen, a charming environmental expert. She always had a smile for me.

What was your highlight of the trip?
My favourite time was at Laura’s birthday party. She is in charge of the centre’s fundraising and landed there a few months before me. It was a magic moment on an important day for her and the rest of us. We are all far from home, but at the same time, feeling the warmth of being together.

Did you face any challenges?
I had some trouble initially with the climate, hot weather and humidity. I need some days to adjust and remember to drink plenty of water! Some days, the job at the centre was physically very demanding. Also, I had to remind myself to be focused near the animal enclosures and do the work properly to avoid accidents.

Our drill monkeys were more than happy to recieve bananas from Josep!

Would you like to experience volunteering at the Limbe Wildlife Centre and exploring Cameroon? We are always looking for new short and long-term volunteers. Apply now!

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]]> 14167 Emergency action plan to combat Covid-19 pandemic https://limbewildlife.org/emergency-action-plan-to-combat-covid-19-pandemic/ Thu, 13 Aug 2020 14:57:56 +0000 https://limbewildlife.org/?p=13711

Emergency action plan to combat Covid-19 pandemic

With the Covid-19 pandemic raging around the world and in Cameroon, we are currently facing the greatest threat ever encountered. Since primates are genetically close to humans, especially our 15 gorillas and 43 chimpanzees, it is very likely that infection with the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 will be
fatal. To safeguard our 40 staff members and 455 animals, Pandrillus, who assists the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife in the management and financing of the Limbe Wildlife Centre, is setting up an Emergency Action Plan to respond to the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic. This involves 5 actions and 24 measures to achieve 12 objectives, with a total budget of $205,305 required for the next 9 months. However, because our incomes have dramatically dropped as a result of the global economical crisis, Pandrillus has only 37% of this amount secured. We need to raise the $128,400 remaining funds in the coming months.

Our goal is to face the pandemic and its consequences on health, economy, social and human wellbeing, while still pursuing our conservation efforts to the best of our ability, continuing to share success stories with the local and international community, by enforcing these 5 actions:

Action 1. PROTECTION & BIOSECURITY

Action 2. SECURING ANIMAL CARE STANDARDS

Action 3. SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES

Action 4. CONSERVATION & REHABILITATION

Action 5. EDUCATION & INSPIRATION

For more information of this action plan, please read below:

Emergency action plan proposal

Emergency action plan press release
We are completely reliant on donations to continue our crucial work to protect and conserve Cameroon’s wildlife. Every donation makes a difference. If you can, please donate today! 
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]]> 13711 Rising numbers of rescued African grey parrots at LWC https://limbewildlife.org/rising-numbers-of-rescued-african-grey-parrots-at-lwc/ Thu, 13 Aug 2020 14:55:00 +0000 https://limbewildlife.org/?p=13716

Rising numbers of rescued African grey parrots at LWC

Over the course of 2019, this internationally recognized organisation – the only government-led project in Cameroon with the capacity to provide a high standard of care to wildlife – rescued 379 African grey parrots from traffickers. Currently, LWC has 360 birds under its care. The survival of Cameroon wildlife depends on sufficient funding for all aspects of care, rehabilitation and release. Stakeholders engaged in wildlife conservation must share this fundamental responsibility in Cameroon, it should not be placed solely on the shoulders of a single NGO.

Pandrillus Country Director, Guillaume Le Flohic, reports that this amount “represents an increase of 15% to LWC’s total budget, including the subsidies from the Government of Cameroon. This figure also represents 25-30% of the funds raised each year by Pandrillus Cameroon. Without additional support, our capacity to offer the best standard of care to the birds and to maintain all the 200 primates (inc. 15 gorillas, 43 chimpanzees and 74 drills) and other mammals and reptiles under our protection, is seriously challenged”.

Christmas Eve 2019 was marked a record seizure as 275 parrots, along with 600kg of pangolin scales. Customs seized the trafficked parrots in the Littoral Region, placing them in the specialized care of the Limbe Wildlife Centre (LWC) for rehabilitation. On average, a 6-month rehabilitation period is required before release. The minimal budget required for basic maintenance of this essential programme is 30M FCFA.

If the demand for illegal wildlife trade does not come to an end soon, their existence on earth will!

For more information on how LWC plans to combat this fight, please read below:

African grey parrot soft-release proposal

African grey parrot press release

We are completely reliant on donations to continue our crucial work to protect and conserve Cameroon’s wildlife. Every donation makes a difference. If you can, please donate today! 
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]]> 13716 LWC rescues baby orphan drill, Mbigou! https://limbewildlife.org/lwc-rescues-baby-orphan-drill-mbigou/ Thu, 13 Aug 2020 14:48:21 +0000 https://limbewildlife.org/?p=13703

LWC rescues baby orphaned baby drill, Mbigou!

In January 2020, the Limbe Wildlife Centre rescued yet another victim of the illegal pet trade. This orphan drill monkey (Mandrillus leucophaeus) was about 6 months old and was being kept as a pet in the town of Mamfe. He arrived slightly underweight and dehydrated, and had a shotgun bullet in his upper thigh that was the result of his mother getting shot. However, Mbigou showed signs of strength and resilience, as despite his circumstances he was still lively and playful. He underwent a period of special care in our Quarantine with our team of caregivers until he his ready to start his re-socialisation process.

During his first health check, we removed the bullet from his thigh and he was deemed fit and healthy! 2 weeks later, Mbigou underwent his second health check and all was clear! We were then able to introduce a female drill to him who served as his surrogate mother to facilitate his resocialisation and integration in the group!

Watch Mbigou’s rescue and progress as well as his update for a happy ending to a sad story!

We are completely reliant on donations to continue our crucial work to protect and conserve Cameroon’s wildlife. Every donation makes a difference. If you can, please donate today! 
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]]> 13703 LWC receives prestigious wildlife conservation award https://limbewildlife.org/lwc-receives-wildlife-conservation-award/ Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:54:23 +0000 http://limbewildlife.org/?p=13303

LWC receives prestigious wildlife conservation award

We are thrilled to announce that the Limbe Wildlife Centre has been named as a 2019 recipient of the Clark R. Bavin Wildlife Law Enforcement Award. The announcement was made on 21 August at the 18th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP) to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) in Geneva.

The Animal Welfare Institute presents this prestigious award to individuals, organisations and agencies that have demonstrated excellence in combating wildlife crime.  Overall, wildlife law enforcement champions were recognised from 10 countries. The full list of those recognised can be read here: https://awionline.org/press-releases/wildlife-law-enforcement-leaders-honored-cites

Guillaume Le Flohic, LWC Manager and Pandrillus Cameroon Country Director says:

“We are so proud and honoured to receive this award. It is the result and a great celebration of the collaborative efforts made by Pandrillus and the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF) over the last 26 years. In order to make a real impact on wildlife, long-term commitment and effective on the ground management are critical. There are still many challenges ahead of us if we are to ensure a future for Cameroon’s exceptional wildlife. But together, with the right partners and with real political will, we can make a true difference.”

We would also like to acknowledge and thank all the LWC staff both past and present, MINFOF officials, and individuals and institutional donors who support our mission to conserve Cameroon’s unique wildlife. Specifically we would like to thank our long-term and committed partners without whom we could not continue our essential work. This includes:

Pro Wildlife e.V., International Primate Protection League, Fondation Brigitte Bardot, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Born Free Foundation, Rettet den Drill e.V. Proyecto Gran Simio, Givskud Zootopia, Children of Conservation, Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens and many others.

Further links:

https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/more-news/347940-nigerian-11-others-honoured-for-combatting-wildlife-crime.html

https://www.pmnewsnigeria.com/2019/08/22/wildlife-law-enforcement-leaders-honoured-at-cites/

We are completely reliant on donations to continue our crucial work to protect and conserve Cameroon’s wildlife. Every donation makes a difference. If you can, please donate today! 
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]]> 13303 July 2019: A month of ups and downs https://limbewildlife.org/july-news/ Sun, 18 Aug 2019 08:19:31 +0000 http://limbewildlife.org/?p=13287

What we got up to in July 2019

Whilst we experienced lows in July from mourning the death of our Preuss’s monkey Muea, and having a break in at the Pandrillus office, we also are pleased
to report the following achievements:

  • Released Patas monkeys Leonie and Coco into their temporary enclosure as part of their introduction to the Savannah-dwelling guenon group.
  • Rescued female Western Lowland Gorilla Adjibolo’s condition has significantly improved.
  • Organised the 8th Session of our Batoke Family Nature Club which aims to engage local families in conservation actions.
  • Secured media coverage of our work with African Grey Parrots.
Read full July 2019 report

Images from July 2019

Preuss's monkey Muea and red-earred monkey Aggie
Gorilla Adjibolo July 2019
Patas monkey in temporary enclosure
We are completely reliant on donations to continue our crucial work to protect and conserve Cameroon’s wildlife. Every donation makes a difference. If you can, please donate today! 
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]]> 13287 Species conservation: African Grey Parrots https://limbewildlife.org/conservingafricangreyparrots/ https://limbewildlife.org/conservingafricangreyparrots/#respond Sun, 11 Aug 2019 08:34:47 +0000 http://limbewildlife.org/?p=160

Making strides to conserve African Grey Parrots in Cameroon

The Limbe Wildlife Centre (LWC) is a place of safety for any victim of the illegal wildlife trade. One of the important species specific conservation projects run by the centre is for the endangered African Grey Parrot. These intelligent birds are being stolen from the wild to be sold in the illegal pet trade. So since 1993, we have worked on the ground with law enforcement to rehabilitate seized parrots to return them to the wild. Without rescue facilities such as the LWC, law enforcement agencies would have nowhere to place seized parrots.

Over the last few months we’ve made a number of important strides in our work to conserve these incredible yet endangered animals. For example, in June 2019 we cemented our role as a national rescue centre for African Grey Parrots. In collaboration with the relevant agencies, we rescued 19 individuals that were seized in the port of Kribi. Sadly these individuals were illegally captured and destined for an unnatural and cruel life in the pet trade. Fortunately, they are now safe at the LWC and receiving the care they need.

Furthermore, works are well underway for our new African Grey Parrot rehabilitation aviary. Ultimately this large 22m x 11m aviary will change the lives of many rescued parrots. Because of this aviary, they will learn to fly again much faster, and thereby reduce the time spent in captivity. Normally the rescued birds arrive in a terrible condition and require a great deal of specialist care. As their flight feathers are often cut by poachers, they must grow back. Afterwards, each bird must learn to fly again. This aviary will therefore be integral to facilitate a faster rehabilitation. Furthermore, it will also increase our capacity to rescue more parrots and ultimately, will enable us to release more of these endangered animals back into the wild to restore dwindling wild populations.

Once the aviary is complete, the next step in our conservation project will involve fitting trackers on the released birds. In doing so, we will collect crucial data on survivorship, distribution, migration patterns and rate of recapture. This will be the first of such a project worldwide. See below a photo of the aviary construction so far!

Media coverage

Alongside our crucial rescue and rehabilitation efforts, we are also working to raise awareness of the plight of African Grey Parrots through educating Cameroonians through a billboard campaign in the city of Limbe, and also through developing a comprehensive educational board in the wildlife centre. Furthermore we secured the following recent media exposure in order to draw the world’s attention to the need to protect and conserve African Grey Parrots:

Whilst we are proud of the progress made to date with the support of our partners and supporters, we must not take our foot off the accelerator.  We must continue to work together to #ProtectWildlife!

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