Glory Geofrey Bakari
The Rondo Dwarf Galago (Paragalago rondoensis) is an endangered primate species endemic to Tanzania’s coastal forests. Zaraninge Forest Reserve is one of the few remaining habitats supporting this species. However, increasing human activities such as logging, agricultural encroachment and uncontrolled fires are rapidly degrading this habitat. Moreover, close interactions between local communities and some galago species, especially due to the animals' attraction to coconut wine, which acts as an important local income source for some communities in the villages near Zaraninge Forest, have resulted in negative interactions between the species and communities. Yet, the communities' control measures and their conservation impacts remain poorly understood.
This project aims to enhance the long-term conservation of the Rondo Dwarf Galago by combining ecological research with community-based conservation strategies. The project intends to achieve the following specific objectives:
1. Assess the population status and distribution of the Rondo Dwarf Galago within Zaraninge Forest Reserve.
2. Understand local community perceptions, interactions and knowledge regarding the Rondo Dwarf Galago and other galago species.
3. Promote conservation action by raising awareness and building local capacity through community workshops and the establishment of a Conservation Club.
By fostering local stewardship and addressing the root causes of negative human-wildlife interactions, this project will contribute to the sustainable management of Zaraninge Forest Reserve and enhance the conservation of the Rondo Dwarf Galago and other galago species