Ghanaian authorities and conservation groups are stepping up efforts to combat the illegal poaching of pangolins, one of the world’s most trafficked mammals, ahead of World Pangolin Day on February 15.
Over the past decade, an estimated one million pangolins—commonly known as scaly anteaters—have been poached worldwide, with demand for their scales particularly high in Asia.
In Ghana, the three native species—the giant pangolin, ground pangolin, and white-bellied pangolin—are all endangered and at risk of extinction.
To curb illegal hunting, Ghana’s wildlife conservation agency has increased patrols and launched awareness campaigns in local communities.
Despite strict national and international laws protecting pangolins, enforcement in Ghana remains weak, with an estimated 5 to 10 tonnes of pangolin scales illegally exported each year, according to the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA).
Pangolins play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling pest populations and aerating soil through their burrowing habits.
In the Asukese Forest Reserve, the NGO Alliance for Pangolin Conservation-Ghana has been actively working with local communities to safeguard the species.
Public awareness is also driving change at the grassroots level.
Obaa Yaa, a restaurant owner in the Bono region, used to sell pangolin meat but stopped after learning about conservation efforts.
“Now, I educate my customers about the importance of protecting pangolins to ensure food security,” she said.
With conservationists and communities joining forces, Ghana is taking crucial steps to safeguard its endangered pangolin population for future generations.
