Cameroon has taken a major step forward in protecting its forests and wildlife. A revised Code of Conduct for eco-guards and a new initiative to support civil society organizations (CSOs) working against environmental crime were recently introduced as part of ongoing conservation efforts.

On July 16 in Bertoua, in the East Region of Cameroon, WWF Cameroon and the Ministry of Forestry and Wildlife (MINFOF) officially launched the updated Code of Conduct for eco-guards, alongside a project aimed at fighting illegal forestry activities.

The new "Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct for Forestry Staff Posted to Protected Areas” is developed with WWF support, focuses on ethical behavior, respect for human rights, and community engagement. It provides clear guidelines to help eco-guards carry out patrols and enforcement duties with professionalism and integrity.

As part of a national awareness campaign, MINFOF presented the Code to government officials, technical and financial partners, civil society groups, community leaders, and the media.

According to Georges Mouncharou, Director of Cooperation and Programs at MINFOF, “The Code of Conduct is a response to eco-guards’ calls for clear standards and accountability. It helps position them as role models in implementing conservation policy and fighting environmental crime.”

Protecting Civil Society in the Fight Against Environmental Crime

In a related move to strengthen environmental protection, Cameroon also launched a new project to protect civil society organizations working to expose environmental crimes. The project, titled “Contribution to Enhanced Protection for Civil Society Organizations Collaborating in the Detection and Reporting of Suspected Environmental Crimes”, was developed in partnership with INTERPOL and is funded by the German Federal Ministry for the Environment (BMUV).

Set to run for three years, the project will be implemented in the TRIDOM and TNS forest landscapes in southeastern Cameroon. It aims to improve systems for monitoring, early warning, and advocacy by strengthening the ability of local CSOs to report environmental crimes and support law enforcement.

Alain Ononino, WWF Cameroon Director, emphasized the crucial role of civil society: “CSOs are often the closest to where illegal activities happen. They now have tools and support to work with law enforcement and help ensure that those who commit environmental crimes are held accountable.”

Progress and Challenges

Between September 2024 and June 2025, MINFOF’s enforcement efforts led to the seizure of 11,599 pieces of illegally harvested timber and the arrest of over 40 individuals, including 22 poachers and 19 illegal loggers.

However, despite these achievements, the ministry continues to face challenges, especially limited funding, which hampers the full implementation of local strategies against illegal logging and wildlife crime.