Country/Region: Senegal
Partner: Panthera
Senegal’s Niokolo-Koba National Park is one of the last refuges for several highly threatened species in West Africa. Fondation Segré previously supported Panthera‘s efforts in the park, resulting in a five-fold increase in ranger patrols and regular enforcement covering 50% of the park’s 9’000 km² area. This boost in enforcement has significantly reduced poaching, leading to a rise in the populations of many species, especially lions, in recent years.
This new grant aims to build on these efforts by establishing a fully functional aerial survey and surveillance unit in the park. This unit, consisting of a pilot and support staff (for logistics and plane maintenance), will enhance coverage of remote areas that are rarely patrolled. The aerial surveillance will provide critical data on key threats and wildlife, helping to detect illegal activities and improve the management of the park and its biodiversity.
