The March 2026 newsletter highlights continued progress in conservation, community engagement, and research activities at Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park.
Environmental education remained a priority, with school visits, Pangolin Day celebrations, and outreach activities strengthening awareness among young people about protected species and anti-poaching efforts. Community initiatives also combined health and social mobilization, including STI awareness campaigns and activities for International Women’s Rights Day, reinforcing social cohesion and women’s engagement in Bomassa and Makao. Capacity building was supported through ArcGIS Pro training for staff across multiple departments.
On the research and monitoring side, important wildlife observations were recorded, including gorilla births and group dynamics, as well as ongoing chimpanzee monitoring in Goualougo. The Elephant Listening Project finalized the verification of acoustic data from Mbeli, while the Wildlife Health Program investigated an elephant mortality, with test results ruling out Ebola and anthrax.
Tourism and infrastructure development advanced with the renovation of the Wali Bai lookout tower, supported by Expedia, alongside broader improvements to park facilities. These efforts aim to strengthen ecotourism capacity while involving local communities. Meanwhile, park protection efforts led to the arrest of nine poachers and reinforced coordination among partners to improve threat management.
The month was also marked by the loss of two long-serving staff members, whose contributions to the park were acknowledged with respect and gratitude.
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