On October 1, 2024, in Libreville, the NGOs Space for Giants and Conservation Justice signed a 15-month strategic partnership to manage mobile electric fences in several provinces of Gabon. This innovative initiative aims to mitigate Human-Wildlife Conflicts (HWC), particularly with elephants, while safeguarding the agricultural crops of local communities. With the rise of HWC in the provinces of Haut-Ogooué, Ogooué-Lolo, Ngounié, and Ogooué-lvindo, this collaboration comes at a critical time.
Since its establishment in Gabon, Space for Giants has installed mobile electric fences powered by solar energy. In partnership with Conservation Justice, the project aims to secure crops that are regularly devastated by elephants. According to Eric Chehoski, National Director of Space for Giants, “it is inconceivable to discuss conservation without addressing the human-elephant conflict. We are doing everything possible to ensure that local communities benefit from these fences, an immediate and practical solution.”
The collaboration extends beyond the installation of these devices. Conservation Justice will identify beneficiaries and assist them with their applications to local authorities. Additionally, the NGO is committed to training rural communities on managing and maintaining the equipment while ensuring post-installation follow-up. For Luc Mathot, Executive Director of Conservation Justice, “the active participation of local populations is key to sustainably solving this issue.”
Initially targeting four provinces, the project may expand to other regions depending on results and opportunities. Through this partnership, Space for Giants and Conservation Justice reaffirm their commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife, while ensuring sustainable agricultural development in rural Gabon.
Key Points
- 4 target provinces: Haut-Ogooué, Ogooué-Lolo, Ngounié, Ogooué-lvindo
- 15-month collaboration for continuous management of mobile electric fences
- Solar innovation: Electric fences powered by solar energy, suitable for subsistence farming
- Since 2022, Space for Giants has installed this device in several rural areas of Gabon
This innovative approach offers local communities not only protection from elephant damage but also an opportunity for sustainable and secure agricultural development.
Fanta Mabo
