WWF and MINFOF Strengthen Eco-guards’ Capacity for Ethical, Rights-Based Conservation

In a continued effort to promote ethical and inclusive conservation, the Ministry of Forests and Wildlife (MINFOF), in partnership with WWF Cameroon, organized a three-day training for eco-guards of Boumba Bek and Nki National Parks in South-East Cameroon. The training aimed to strengthen the eco-guard’s capacity to combat wildlife crime while upholding the rights of local communities.

Held in Bertoua from August 26 to 28, the workshop brought together dozens of eco-guards and community representatives to address the challenges of illegal wildlife trade and the importance of rights-based law enforcement.

Eco-guards serve as frontline defenders of Cameroon’s rich biodiversity, and this training provided them with additional tools to improve collaboration with local populations and ensure the protection of both people and nature.

The sessions focused on Cameroon’s updated Forest and Wildlife Law of July 2024, human rights standards and best practices, as well as WWF’s environmental and social safeguards. Participants also engaged in practical simulations on the appropriate use of force during peacetime situations, ensuring conservation efforts align with human dignity.

“Eco-guards are key to protecting Cameroon’s biodiversity, and this training equips them to integrate human rights into their work, fostering trust with communities,” said Achile Mengamenya, Conservator of Nki National Park”.

Wildlife trafficking remains one of the world’s most profitable illegal trades, valued at over €21 billion annually, according to INTERPOL. In Cameroon, the Government and partners like WWF are intensifying efforts to stop poachers from targeting endangered species like elephants and pangolins.

“Conservation is only effective when we respect the rights of indigenous people and those who depend on the forest,” says Calvin Fondja, WWF Jengi TRIDOM Programme Manager. “Supporting this training ensures eco-guards enforce the law while reducing conflict,” he adds

“WWF believes conservation and human rights go hand in hand. This training equips eco-guards with technical skills while emphasizing respect for indigenous and local communities. With human rights tools, codes of conduct, and complaint mechanisms, we foster professionalism, trust, and stronger community alliances against poaching.”

Other Initiatives

The training builds on earlier efforts, including the launch of a National Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct for eco-guards, presented in Bertoua in July 2025. Developed with contributions from WWF and other stakeholders, the code promotes professionalism, integrity, accountability, and constructive community relations.

Additionally, to stem environmental crimes in the Cameroon segments of the TRIDOM and TNS landscapes, WWF launched a project in July 2025, Contribution to Enhanced Protection for Civil Society Organizations that Collaborate in the Detection and Reporting of Suspected Environmental Crimes. The project will contribute to strengthening surveillance, advocacy, and international cooperation by empowering civil society organizations and communities to detect and report illegal activities.

This joint effort by MINFOF and WWF reflects a growing commitment to conservation that is both effective and humane.