Our highlights 2023 and Looking ahead

Together we are making a difference in one of the most challenging environments on Earth! As a result of our global and local partnerships, there is good news for some of the world’s most threatened and unique species and ecosystems. Encouraged by this progress, we approach 2024 with more ambitious aspirations for these important wildlife populations, and to take new bold steps to safeguard and sustain the vast landscapes upon which they, and the traditional livelihoods of many people depend. Please join us on the next stage of our journey!

IT’S OFFICIAL – THE SCIMITAR-HORNED ORYX IS BACK IN THE WILD!

The successful reintroduction of the scimitar-horned oryx in Chad means that this iconic species has now been downlisted by the IUCN Red List of Threatened species. Because of a thriving free-living population of more than 600 individuals, the scimitar-horned oryx is no longer “Extinct in the Wild”. Its “Endangered” status means that sustained efforts are still required to ensure its long-term survival.

ADDAX NUMBERS ARE GOING UP

This year we welcomed the 5th transfer of addax from Abu Dhabi. There are now more than 150 addax roaming free in Ouadi Rimé Ouadi Achim Faunal Reserve (OROAFR), more than the last total wild population estimated by the IUCN Red list.
We are working hard to make sure the addax are well on their way to following in the footsteps of the scimitar-horned oryx!

HOPE FOR DAMA GAZELLES

In 2023, we recorded the largest number of dama gazelles seen in the Aïr and Ténéré National Nature Reserve in Niger over the last 10 years of regular monitoring.
Meanwhile, the number of dama gazelles at the in situ captive breeding facility in OROAFR in Chad increased by over a third to a total of 29 individuals. These are significant steps for one of the world’s most endangered mammals, with perhaps fewer than 100 animals left in the wild.

OSTRICHES BREED IN OROA FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 50 YEARS

Rare North African ostriches returned to Ouadi Rimé – Ouadi Achim in 2020 as part of our multi-species restoration initiative. Now mature, adult birds successfully hatched and raised 10 chicks in 2023. Meanwhile, in Niger we successfully transferred ostrich chicks from Iférouane to our Kellé facility, to diversify the genetic pool of the reproductive groups.

DEMAND FOR VULTURE PARTS GOES DOWN AFTER 5 YEARS OF EFFORTS

After cinq years of monitoring and awareness raising in Niger on illegal killing of vultures, we recorded a significant decrease in the number of vulture parts for sale in local markets, from 36 cases in 2019 to NONE in 2023.

AMBITIOUS PLANS FOR OROAFR

OROAFR is the only place in the world where scimitar-horned oryx, addax and dama gazelles can be seen roaming freely. The sustainable management of the reserve is essential for their survival as well as that of traditional local communities.
In 2023, we continued strengthening our collaboration with the Chadian wildlife authorities to improve management and law enforcement in the reserve: 50 rangers are supported and trained continuously.

WORKING CLOSELY WITH LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Five healthcare and dental care missions were carried out in Niger with Esafro, that benefitted to more than 750 people in remote areas. We also supported six schools in rural areas in Niger with over 800 children benefitted from scholar supplies.
All year long, 15 community liaison officers worked tirelessly with local communities to document human activities in Chad and Niger, raise awareness about threatened species and the importance of protecting them.

We salute our field teams for their incredible work and continuous dedication despite working in challenging environments.

We thank the ever-growing number of donors that support our work.
Their generosity makes our mission possible.
Join them today and help us protect and restore the Sahara’s ecosystems!