First Ever Sanctuary for Amphibians, Reptiles and Birds Conservation in Cameroon Created!

By Ndimuh B. Shancho

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The Cameroon Government has transformed what used to be known as the Proposed Mount Muanenguba Integral Ecological Reserve into the Mount Muanenguba Herpeto-ornithological Sanctuary, being Cameroon’s first ever sanctuary for the conservation of amphibians, reptiles and birds. This follows Prime Ministerial Decree No 2023 /00051 of February 21, 2023, signed by the Prime Minister of Cameroon, Chief Dr. Joseph Dion Ngute.

The 4696 hectares protected area cuts across the  Kupe-Muanengouba Division of the Southwest Region and the Moungo Division of the Littoral Region  of Cameroon. It is home to circa 100 species of amphibians, 89 species of reptiles and 270 bird species with up to 60% of them said to be endemic to the area. At least 13 species of mammals including drills, duikers and pangolins, have also been recorded in the area.

Habitat loss for agriculture, grazing and commercial purposes, and hunting of amphibian and reptile species for pet trade, household consumption and cultural purposes have been key threats to this biodiversity hotspot. The creation of this sanctuary will undoubtedly contribute to conserving amphibians, reptiles and bird species of this emblematic mountain. It will also enhance the protection of  local water catchments, cultural and sacred sites, and the Manengouba lakes, while also promoting ecotourism and the wellbeing of adjacent communities.