Select Support project for the conservation of mangrove ecosystems and threatened aquatic species in the Basse Vallée de l’Ouémé Biosphere Reserve Support project for the conservation of mangrove ecosystems and threatened aquatic species in the Basse Vallée de l’Ouémé Biosphere Reserve
Benin Environment and Education Society (BEES) est une organisation non gouvernementale établie au Bénin depuis 2005 et qui mène plusieurs actions pour la protection de l’environnement.
Overview of the project
BEES uses dugout canoe racing as a tool to raise awareness of the need to protect mangroves and endangered species in the Lower Ouémé Valley Reserve (Benin). The project, funded by Play For Nature, targets local communities to preserve species such as the manatee, the spotted-necked otter and migratory birds.
The aim of the project is to use dugout canoe racing as a means of communicating and raising mass awareness of the need to protect the Reserve's mangrove ecosystems and endangered aquatic species, namely the African manatee, the spotted-necked otter, the dwarf crocodile, the sitatunga and migratory waterbirds.
Ongoing research
03/02/2024 au 03/04/2024
More than 200 participants from each commune took part in the workshops, and the pirogue race brought together 48 competitors and more than 1,000 spectators. 24 winners were awarded prizes and hired as awareness-raising relays, with the support of local authorities and community associations.
The workshops increased participants’ knowledge of mangrove protection and raised their awareness of local issues and environmentally harmful practices.
We received funding from Play For Nature to carry out this project.
organisation
BEES is a Beninese NGO that has been active since 2005, focusing on biodiversity, environmental education, ecotourism, climate adaptation and community development.
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Small Initiatives Programme (SIP) Kingdom of the Netherlands Ocean Care.