This initiative aims to contribute to the conservation of chimpanzees and the sustainable development of the Kedougou region of Senegal.

This initiative aims to contribute to the conservation of chimpanzees and the sustainable development of the Kedougou region of Senegal.

This project is part of the five-year Wula Naffa programme. This is the third phase of a process supported by the Biodiversity Foundation since 2009. In this phase, the objective is to redirect two major problems linked to each other. On the one hand, the critical situation of the chimpanzee Pan troglodytes verus, which despite its extraordinary characteristics of cultural adaptation to the environment, is in danger of extinction due to the fragmentation of its habitat and competition with humans. On the other hand, the growing demand for sustainable economic alternatives by local communities in the area, especially young people and women.

The project aims to continue working on the adaptation and implementation of the regulatory framework and the training of the communities in the area, in order to favor the local management of the conservation of chimpanzees. To this end, research will be promoted at the national and international level, and among other initiatives, a study on ecological corridors for these animals and a census of chimpanches.

It also seeks to improve the quality of natural and cultural tourism in the region, with the aim of expanding the existing offer thanks to the guided observation of chimpanzees. In this line, the existing infrastructures will be improved, thanks to the creation of a Nature Classroom and a multipurpose study area and the construction of laundry rooms and showers.