Rwibutso Izere Concorde
This project focuses on the conservation of straw-colored fruit bats (Eidolon helvum) in Rubavu and districts in Western Rwanda. The straw-colored fruit bat (Eidolon helvum) is listed as "Near Threatened" on the IUCN Red List due to significant population declines, increasing its risk of being reclassified as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List. Despite playing a crucial role in seed dispersal, pollination, and maintaining ecosystem health, these bats face severe threats from habitat destruction, persecution, and negative public perceptions. The objectives of this project are to:
a) Assess community knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about E. helvum in the project areas.
b) Raise conservation awareness to improve public perceptions and highlight the ecological importance of E. helvum.
c) Conduct regular monitoring of E. helvum to track population dynamics, movement patterns, and potential threats.
d) Establish, train and deploy a network of local conservation guardians to protect straw-colored fruit bat colonies from human disturbances and support monitoring activities.
This project is expected to achieve several key outcomes. First and foremost, it will provide a comprehensive understanding of the community’s knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of straw-colored fruit bats (Eidolon helvum), identifying misconceptions, concerns, and areas for targeted conservation efforts. The project will also lead to increased awareness and more positive attitudes toward Eidolon helvum and other bat species. Furthermore, it will enhance local capacity and promote community ownership over the protection and conservation of these bats. Finally, the project will generate critical information on Eidolon helvum that will support conservation planning and contribute to a deeper understanding of its population dynamics, ecology, and threats in the project areas.