Non-governmental, non-political, and non-profit making are some of the adjectives used to describe the Ghana Wildlife Society. This Accra based NGO is based at the Accra Conservation Centre near the Efua Sutherland Children’s Park, very close to the Kempinski and Mövenpick Hotels and a 7 minute drive from Green Views Apartments. The Ghana Wildlife Society aims to conserve wildlife in all its forms to ensure a better environment and for improved quality of life for all people.
Birdlife International is a global partnership of conservation organizations that strive to conserve birds, their habitats and global diversity, working with people towards sustainability in the use of natural resources. It is the world’s largest partnership of conservation organizations and wildlife reserves, with over 120 partner organizations. The Ghana Wildlife Society is a part of Birdlife International and they operate on a model that stipulates that conservation actions should be based on credible scientific evidence.
Ghana Wildlife Society History
In the early 1970s, the Ghana Wildlife Society was formed and functioned for a few years before becoming dormant. In 1991 the society was revived by a project which was aimed at protecting the sea shore birds and their coastal wetland habitats in Ghana called: “Save the Seashore Birds Project – Ghana”. After the project had ended in June 1994, the society was incorporated on May 19, 1995 and later tool over and continued the conservation activities initiated by the project.
Achievements
Wildlife poaching trafficking is a menace that many conservationists and governments are fighting due to its role in the speeding of the extinction rate of some animals and the Ghana Wildlife Society has helped put in legislature to curb this. Through their activities over the years, there has been a ban on the trade of Grey Parrots and have further provided models that enhance community conservation actions.
The Nzulezu tourists Centre in the Western Region, was direct result of the activities of the Wildlife Society. Moreover, they have a long-term monitoring scheme on marine turtles and marine mammals which help keep records of their population as well as other activities. Ghana Wildlife Society has invested in the youth and younger generation by building wildlife clubs in schools, that seek to educate them on the importance of conservation of our wildlife as well as engaging in mini projects.
To influence business practices and national policies, the Ghana Wildlife Society engages with businesses and key decision makers using scientific evidence garnered through rigorous scientific research. Some of its business partners include Toyota Ghana, Royal Senchi Hotel, GHACEM, Mövenpick Hotel, Gold Fields Ghana, Wienco Ghana Ltd, Newmont Ghana and Accra City Hotel.
