Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Morie Komba Manyeh, praised the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary for its significant contributions to conservation during its 30th Anniversary Fundraising Gala held at SOAS University’s Brunei Gallery in London.
The event gathered conservationists, academics, and environmental experts, with renowned primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall serving as the keynote speaker.
Manyeh, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Marie Manyeh, addressed the audience and conveyed greetings from President Julius Maada Bio. He described Tacugama as a “remarkable symbol of resilience, vision, and environmental stewardship,” acknowledging the founders, Bala and Sharmila Amarasekaran, for their transformative work in establishing the sanctuary.
Founded in 1995, Tacugama has evolved from a small rescue center into Sierra Leone’s leading eco-tourism and conservation hub. The sanctuary provides lifelong care for chimpanzees rescued from illegal trafficking and habitat destruction. As Sierra Leone’s national animal, chimpanzees are now featured on the country’s biometric passport, symbolising its growing tourism efforts.
During the event, Dr. Goodall and Bala Amarasekaran participated in a panel discussion, emphasising the importance of integrating scientific research with community engagement in conservation efforts. Dr. Goodall highlighted the connection between poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability, stating, “The first law of conservation is poverty alleviation.”
Dr. Manyeh noted Sierra Leone’s advancements in conservation, including the establishment of a full-fledged Ministry of the Environment in 2020 and the proactive role of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in reforestation and biodiversity protection. He stated, “Our local actions reflect global commitments under agreements like the Paris Accord and the Convention on Biological Diversity.”
The High Commissioner also underscored the significance of the Western Area Peninsula National Park, which protects over 17,000 hectares of forest essential for wildlife and Freetown’s water supply. He addressed ongoing challenges such as deforestation, illegal wildlife trade, and climate change, urging for “stronger collaboration, deeper investment, and continued advocacy” from international partners.
British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Ms. Josephine Gauld LVO, echoed Dr. Manyeh’s sentiments, commending the dedication of the Tacugama team and encouraging international support for its mission.
The gala featured a heart-rendering violin performance by Braimah and Aminata Kanneh-Mason from the internationally acclaimed Kanneh-Mason family, whose heritage connects back to Sierra Leone.
The evening culminated in a charitable auction aimed at supporting Tacugama’s initiatives, celebrating the collective responsibility for conservation and the future of the planet.
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