Conservation & promotion of rhinos in the maritime region of Togo

The lower reaches of the Mono River in Southern Togo formerly supported a large number of vegetation and animal species. During the last decades high demographic growth and failure to take timely conservation measures have led to considerable destruction of flora, fauna and habitats. Fortunately a few remaining wetland habitats which have made it possible for a small number of hippos to survive. These habitats are however now threatened by the further extension of agricultural areas (mainly subsistence agriculture) and the concentration of human settlements around these sites. The situation is now also characterised by conflicts between the local population and wildlife. For instance farmers complain about damages caused by Hippos to crops and occasionally even killing of humans, while fishermen often loose nets and other types of fish equipment. Protection of hippos and management of their habitats therefore must be based on the recognition of the current context and must take into account the activities of local communities. The proposal by CDAC-ONG has been elaborated on the basis of contacts with the NGO AVPN from Benin that with support of SWP has been working on the hippos on the Benin side of the Mono-river. The work in Togo will consist of complementary and cross border actions aiming at wetlands conservation and sustainable use with the Hippo as flagship species. Main activities are inventories of hippos and their habitats on the Togolese side of the Mono River, awareness raising on the value of wetlands among local communities, the set up of ecotourism activities and exchange and co-operation with Benin. CDAC will also co-operate with Benin (AVPN) on the preparation of a cross-border project for the Lower Mono River Basin (see project 2AF00016C).

Information on Hippos in the Mono basin and its state is known, thereby allowing identification of appropriate measures for their protection. Increased community awareness on Hippo conservation and sustainable use of natural resources in the Mono basin Increased community involvement in conservation initiatives in the basin as can be noticed through the establishment of eco-brigade (with the dual role informing on, and enforcing the law) The ecological sustainability of tourism in the locality is assessed, and a comprehensive tourism product is established. The relevant infrastructure needed is assessed and tour operators have been approached for inclusion of the new product to existing tours.