Forest Elephant Conservation in Campo Ma’an National Park


A Commitment to Biodiversity and Local Communities

From 2022 to 2024, CASuDev led an ambitious project within Campo Ma’an National Park (PNCM) in southern Cameroon. Supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP), this initiative aims to enhance the conservation status of forest elephants (Loxodonta africana cyclotis), mitigate human-elephant conflicts, and improve local livelihoods through sustainable practices.



WHY THIS PROJECT?

Deforestation, poaching, and human encroachment threaten wildlife in PNCM. To address these challenges, CASuDev implemented sustainable strategies to:

  1. Protect elephants and their habitat by restoring migration corridors and strengthening wildlife monitoring.
  2. Reduce human-elephant conflicts through community engagement and awareness campaigns.
  3. Enhance local livelihoods with income-generating activities that promote conservation.



ACTIONS AND IMPACT


Elephant Conservation and Monitoring

  1. Mapping and tracking elephants: identification of corridors, activity zones, and movement patterns.
  2. Habitat restoration: rehabilitation of a corridor and a clearing.
  3. Strengthened collaboration with authorities and researchers for improved conservation management.
  4. Innovative technology: use of camera traps to better understand elephant behavior and needs.


Community Awareness and Engagement

  1. 138 young ambassadors trained through the establishment of conservation clubs in schools.
  2. 360 community members engaged via awareness campaigns and village management committees.
  3. Launch of conservation radio broadcasts to extend outreach and education.


Enhancing Livelihoods through Sustainable Practices

  1. Beekeeping training: 60 residents trained, establishment of 2 apiaries (60 hives), and production of 150 kg of honey.
  2. Agroforestry initiatives: 40 people trained in sustainable farming techniques.
  3. Cassava processing and commercialization: 25 women supported in founding the GIC AGRI-CAMPO cooperative.
  4. Material and financial support: rehabilitation of a 2-hectare cassava field and construction of a well.



LOOKING AHEAD

CASuDev continues to expand its impact by working with local and international partners. Our commitment is to foster peaceful coexistence between wildlife and local populations while promoting sustainable development.


JOIN US!

Support our mission by contacting us or following our activities on our website and social media. Together, let’s protect Cameroon’s natural heritage and empower local communities!