Dandeng Kulledeng
The Gambia Wildlife Foundation
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Abuko Nature Reserve
The Department of Parks and Wildlife Management

Protecting Wildlife Together

Collaboration

To protect and preserve Gambias flora and fauna, with a focus on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

We will work hand-in-hand with the Gambia’s government to rescue, rehabilitate and release wildlife within the illegal pet trade or those displaced by human activity and to create a safe haven for displaced wildlife unsuitable for release. Above all, we will strive to help communities benefit from wildlife focused ecotourism, and to instil a passion for their countries flora and fauna.

Abuko Nature Reserve

In 1968 The Gambia Department of Parks and Wildlife Management (DPWM) was established and created Abuko Nature Reserve and Orphanage.

The reserve is well maintained and particularly popular with bird enthusiasts.The orphanage is where DPWM have requested our support. There are several enclosures which serve as a holding place for needy animals, including hyenas and a range of primates seized from the illegal pet trade. The entire orphanage is in desperate need of modernisation and refurbishment, most enclosures lack shelter, poor enrichment and the animals dietary needs are not being met.

WE NEED YOU TO KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING

DONATE

We have hit the ground running: we are registered as a charity foundation in The Gambia, and have signed an MoU with The Department of Parks and Wildlife Management (DPWM) to start making positive changes, mostly for displaced wildlife in their care, but also the entirety of the countries wildlife and protected areas – which are disappearing at an alarming rate.

Your support could mean a second chance for a vulnerable monkey, a rehabilitated bird returning to the skies, or a restored habitat where animals can roam freely.

Let’s make this vision a reality together — one act of kindness at a time.

The Primates at Abuko

With only two primate enclosures available, they are often overcrowded with no soft-introduction period. The orphanage mostly houses patas and baboons, the baboons are released in to the wild after a period of captivity.

The hyenas at Abuko

The Hyenas are currently split; some alone, some in pairs, and in very small enclosures. Unfortunately the largest enclosure is out of use due to damaged fencing - which we hope to help with. They are frequently pacing due to deep deprivation of their basic physiological needs. Similar to the primate enclosures, they completely lack stimulation and enrichment. There is vast room for improvement.

How can we help

Improving Animal Enclosures
Provide materials to enhance enclosures, including climbing structures, dens, and enrichment features to encourage natural behaviors. Plant trees within the enclosures to create a more natural environment.
Renovating Volunteer Housing
Upgrade volunteer housing at Abuko to accommodate professionals and skilled volunteers who can contribute their expertise to the project.
Staff Training and Health
Offer additional training for staff, including vaccinations against rabies and tetanus, to ensure their safety and the highest level of care for the animals.
Sustainable Tourism Development
Develop a tourist plan to increase income, enabling Abuko to become more self-sufficient while educating visitors about wildlife conservation.
Rescue, Rehabilitation, and Release
Collaborate on rescue efforts, ensuring effective rehabilitation and, when possible, the release of wildlife back into their natural habitats.
Hyena Bush Enclosure
Construct a large, improved bush enclosure for hyenas, incorporating dens, pools, enrichment, and high-security fencing to ensure their safety and well-being.
Repurposing Existing Hyena Enclosures
Transform the now-empty hyena enclosures at Abuko into well-equipped spaces for primates. These will allow for smaller troops, species separation, orphan care, and isolation when needed.
Primate Bush and Long-Term Enclosures
Create a primate bush enclosure for pre-release rehabilitation and improved enclosures for long-term residents who cannot return to the wild due to illness, behavioral challenges, or human imprinting.
Veterinary Care and Nutrition
Supply essential veterinary equipment and nutritional supplements. Assist Abuko in developing tailored dietary plans for each species and continue providing veterinary care to improve the overall health of the animals.