Save Africa's most endangered gorillas

In the heart of the Lebialem Highlands, there is Tofala Hills Wildlife Sanctuary. Our dedicated group of community rangers is making significant strides in protecting some of the world’s most endangered species, including the Cross River gorillas and Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees. Operating under the challenging circumstances of the Anglophone crisis, these rangers, trained and supported with your help, are proving that local involvement is crucial for effective conservation.

Thriving in Adversity

The community rangers, many of whom were once hunters, have undergone extensive training to become citizen scientists. Their transformation is a testament to the power of local knowledge and engagement in conservation efforts. The leader of the rangers emphasizes the area’s rich biodiversity: “Tofala Hills Wildlife Sanctuary is home to numerous species, including duikers, giant pangolins, Cross River gorillas, and Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees. Our work has expanded our understanding of these species and their habitats”.

The community rangers navigate the dense forest of the Tofala Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, constantly vigilant for snare traps and signs of human activity. This sanctuary is under threat not only from poachers but also from separatist militia fighting for independence from Cameroon. The rangers face significant challenges, operating undercover in plainclothes to avoid being mistaken for government forces by the militia.

Tangible Impacts

Our Community Rangers Support Project has had a profound impact on both wildlife conservation and the rangers’ lives. A former gatherer of forest products, shares, “The project has been a breakthrough for me. I can now provide for my family’s needs and contribute to wildlife conservation.” Similarly, the eldest ranger reflects on his journey from hunter to protector. “I used to hunt monkeys, gorillas, and chimps. Now, I understand their importance for the survival of our forests, and thus for ourselves, and am committed to their protection.”

Achievements and Discoveries

Since 2018, community rangers have been the primary source of ecological data in the Lebialem Highlands, contributing 100% of species and habitat records in the region. Their efforts have led to the discovery of new species, including the white-crested hornbill (Horizocerus albocristatus). This data is vital for making informed conservation decisions and effectively addressing threats to biodiversity.

Broader Benefits

Beyond scientific contributions, the involvement of community rangers has brought numerous benefits. It has enhanced their skills, improved their livelihoods, and fostered a sense of connection to their environment. Citizen science supports researchers in exploring the well-being, governance, and ecological knowledge of indigenous peoples and local communities. It is a robust way to understand human-environment interactions.

A Vision for the Future

Our project, supported by GlobalGiving, aims to empower local communities through ongoing training and capacity-building. By integrating traditional ecological knowledge with scientific research, the Community Rangers Support Project ensures that conservation efforts are sustainable and impactful. Our current needs include recruiting and training more Community Rangers, acquiring resources for patrols and monitoring, and obtaining trail cameras that can provide vital data on wildlife movements and behaviors. These resources will enhance our ability to protect endangered species, gather accurate ecological data, and respond swiftly to emerging threats.