DIZANGUE, Cameroon -- Marine biologist Aristide Takoukam Kamla is dedicated to safeguarding African manatees, a vulnerable species found in freshwater along the western African coast, particularly in Cameroon's Lake Ossa.
Kamla's passion for these elusive creatures began over a decade ago when he first spotted them in the tranquil waters of Lake Ossa. Unlike their more outgoing Florida cousins, African manatees are shy and require early morning excursions to catch a glimpse.
Despite their endangered status, much remains unknown about the African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis), including their population numbers and migration patterns. They are primarily threatened by habitat loss and poaching, with humans being their only predators.
In response to these challenges, Kamla founded the African Marine Mammal Conservation Organization, which has established laboratories and conservation efforts in the region. Hunting manatees is now illegal in the village, and local support for their protection has grown.
However, threats persist, including pollution from local industries and fishing practices that endanger the manatees. Kamla emphasizes the importance of collaboration between scientists and local fishermen to combat these issues.
In a significant conservation effort, scientists and fishermen united to tackle the invasive giant salvinia plant that had overrun Lake Ossa, using weevils to control its spread. This partnership has proven successful, restoring the lake's ecosystem.
Moving forward, Kamla aims to promote eco-tourism in the area as a sustainable way to protect manatees while supporting local communities. The collaboration between conservationists and indigenous fishermen highlights the potential for effective wildlife protection through community engagement.