In the heart of West Africa, an important conversation took place, not within the confines of a meeting room but beneath the vast canopy of nature. Stakeholders from Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Cote d’Ivoire gathered to discuss the protection and preservation of vital wildlife corridors that transcend borders. The Nature and Development Foundation in collaboration with GWS organised a two-day meeting at the Forest Hotel, Dodowa, Ghana, on June 14th and 15th, 2023. This meeting titled “Regional Dialogue on the Western and Eastern wildlife corridors of the Mole national park, brought together experts, conservationists, and communities together to discuss a shared commitment: preserving vital wildlife corridors that transcend borders.
Wildlife Without Borders
Wildlife, they say, knows no borders. Just as birds soar across skies unrestricted by political lines, animals need the freedom to roam. The corridors in question – the Eastern Wildlife Corridor (EWC) and the Western Wildlife Corridor (WWC) – are lifelines for countless species. These paths stretch from Burkina Faso into Ghana, facilitating the migration of elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, baboons, and numerous reptiles, amphibians, and avifauna.
Preserving Ecological Connectivity
These corridors are not just about protecting charismatic megafauna; they are crucial for maintaining genetic diversity and the overall health of ecosystems. Professor Emmanuel Danquah, an ecologist, explained during the meeting that corridors enable gene flow, allow species to migrate, and offer resilience against the impacts of climate change. In essence, they are the arteries that keep nature’s heart beating.
A Call for Collaboration
During the dialogue, participants stressed the importance of trans-boundary collaboration. Rev. David Kpelle of the Ghana Wildlife Society emphasized their commitment to wildlife conservation beyond national boundaries. Mr. Bernard Asamoah Boateng from the Ghana Wildlife Division called for a holistic approach to conservation, ensuring protected areas serve their purpose effectively.
Community at the Heart of Conservation
The discussion also revolved around community involvement. Mr. Mathias Edetor of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) underscored the importance of engaging local communities in conservation efforts. Conservation isn’t just about protecting wildlife; it’s also about promoting sustainable land use practices that benefit people and nature alike.
Research: The Key to Conservation
Dr. Sanon Arsene from the IUNC highlighted the role of research and data collection in preserving these vital corridors. The more we know about the movements and needs of wildlife, the better equipped we are to protect them. Research not only informs conservation strategies but also provides a scientific basis for policy advocacy.
