Ivory Export Routes Identified in Port-Gentil

With around 95,000 individuals, Gabon is home to the largest population of critically endangered African forest elephants. Its forests are also estimated to be responsible for 1.2-1.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide sequestration per year. Elephants, giant pangolin, chimpanzee, mandrill and lion are all targets of wildlife crime and trafficking in the region, with potential devastating consequences for the ecosystem. This project addresses Port-Gentil’s role as a transit point in ivory and illegal wildlife product trafficking through establishing a new operational base in the region to conduct investigations, disrupt trafficking networks, and contribute information leading to arrests and prosecutions of wildlife criminals. Local law enforcement, customs agents, magistrates, and others will receive additional training on wildlife law and judicial process. It will also conduct public awareness media campaigns to educate communities on the risks and penalties of wildlife crime.

IEF #AF1055

Project Years: 2025

Project Partners:
Luc Mathot, Conservation Justice, Gabon