The latest edition of Gnusletter includes an article on the status of antelopes in Waza National Park, to which board members of the Leo Foundation and partners in Cameroon contributed.
The article shows a worrying downward trend for some of the larger antelope species, which are the main source of prey for lions in the park. Along with earlier confirmed threats, such as the illegal presence of livestock and poachers, these findings confirm that urgent actions are required to preserve Waza National Park and its wildlife. At the same time, the study also reveals that Waza National Park remains an important stronghold for e.g. Buffon’s kob and korrigum. With proper and quick management interventions, these populations could recover to a healthy level, on which lions and other large predators would then also be able to thrive.
Leo Foundation therefore continues its mission to roll out a rescue action plan for the park and to seek potential sponsors that could provide substantial funding. The Minister of Forests and Wildlife (MINFOF) in Cameroon already agreed to support the initiation of an action plan for the park. We further succeeded in getting support letters from DG IUCN, Chair ALWG, Chairs IUCN Cat SG and Globe Guards, and also approached several large international NGOs active in the region. We are optimistic that parties who have shown interest, will soon confirm their support, so that we can get the rescue plan off the ground.
In the meantime, Leo Foundation keeps locally involved in conservation efforts for the lions of Waza National Park. Two lion guards are currently starting up their patrols for the upcoming dry season, with our financial support.
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