CONSERVATION PROGRAMME INAUGURATED AT MOLE PARK (BACK LEAD)

Story: Zakaria Alhassan, Mognort

New initiative to promote community participation in the conservation and management of wildlife has been inaugurated at Mognori, a farming community within the Mole National Park in the West Gonja District in the Northern Region.
Dubbed the Mognori Eco-Village, the concept would also help provide the people with additional form of livelihood through the promotion of tourism and job creation.
Under the project, an initial fund of GH¢3,000, which would be increased by 10 per cent annually would also be established, for the infrasructural development of the area.
It is supported by the Northern Savannah Biodiversity Conservation Project (NSBCP) and the Wildlife Division Support Project (WASP).
The WDSP is funded by the Dutch government with 5.4 million Euros to ensure more effective wildlife conservation in the country.
A representative of the Eco-Village, Bukari Mahama, explained that the concept was realised in 2003 after most farmers in the area had lost their crops to elephants in the park.
He said a programme lined up for potential tourists under the project included a guided village walk, cultural performances and canoe trips on the Mole River.
An officer from the Wildlife Division, Mr Cletus Nateg, said the initiative formed part of the Protected Areas Management Advisory Units (PAMAU) of the division. He explained that the unit was a platform for the exchange of views and ideas between the management of the park, the local authorities, communities and interest groups in the development and management of the park.
“I therefore urge all the surrounding communities to join hands to conserve this vital resource we have and take advantage of the opportunities it offers us to develop and lift ourselves out of the vicious circle of poverty,” the officer admonished.
According to Mr Nateg, his outfit was also supporting some communities to undertake livelihood support activities such as bee-keeping and the production of artefacts.
“The Wildlife Division is committed to working closely with all its stakeholders to manage the resources of this park and developing livelihood opportunities in the fringe communities as and when identified,” he further stated.
The West Gonja District Chief Executive, Madam Janet Jambia Alhassan, observed that with the necessary support, the area could contribute significantly to the growth of the tourism industry in the country.
She mentioned the Larabanga Mosque, the Mystic Stone, festivals and smock weaving as some potential areas for investment and commended the partners in the project for their contributions to the development of the sector.