2011

Born and brought up in Cameroon, I am currently involved in protected area management work in the Korup National Park under the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife in Cameroon. I have a deep rooted interest in conservation research geared towards providing effective protected area management and it is here that I find my source of motivation

My career began as a ranger for Korup National Park in 2003, since then I have served in several capacities for the Park, such as heading up the tourism unit, being a member of the bio-monitoring team and acting as a local communities development planning consultant. My current role is that of assisting the park’s conservator in planning and implementing research, anti-poaching and administration. This is primarily an administrative position that is often burdened with diplomatic work. Whenever possible I ‘steal’ the opportunity to return to the field in particular when there are issues of poaching (bushmeat), encroachments, animal/human and park/community conflicts challenges. In a bid to remain involved, I am the founding member of a local conservation NGO (Korup Rainforest Conservation Society) striving to seek solutions to increase community benefits from park activities as ways of increasing their participation and reducing conflicts.

My present studies for a PGDip in International Wildlife Conservation Practice at WildCRU will provide me with refined scientific knowledge and skills to carry my conservation work to higher levels. I hold a Bachelors of Science in Environmental Sciences from the University of Buea, Cameroon and I hope to continue my education with a Masters in a similar field.