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The West African manatee (Trichechus senegalensis), one of Africa's least studied and most elusive aquatic mammals, is under increasing threat across its range. In Cameroon, particularly within the Lower Sanaga Basin, manatees face complex challenges that have raised concerns among conservationists. A 2015 study sheds light on the status of manatees in this region and outlines key strategies needed to secure their future.

This study highlights several primary threats to the manatee population. Chief among these are habitat destruction, accidental capture in fishing gear, and deliberate poaching. Rapid human population growth and economic activities such as logging, agriculture, and industrial development have led to extensive habitat degradation. In particular, the conversion of wetlands into agricultural land and pollution from agro-industrial runoff severely compromise manatee habitats.

Accidental entanglement in fishing nets, especially those used for artisanal fishing, is another leading cause of mortality. While many fishermen claim these incidents are unintentional, some cases involve deliberate targeting of manatees for their meat and body parts, which are used in traditional medicine or sold in local markets. The lack of effective law enforcement further exacerbates these problems, with wildlife protection laws rarely implemented or respected in remote areas.

The study also identifies key gaps in knowledge and public awareness. Local communities often harbour misconceptions about manatees, viewing them either as pests or mystical creatures. These beliefs can hinder conservation efforts and lead to underreporting of manatee-related incidents. Moreover, there is a significant lack of ecological data on manatee population size, distribution, and migration patterns in the Lower Sanaga Basin of Cameroon, making it difficult to design evidence-based conservation strategies.

To address these challenges, the research proposes a comprehensive conservation framework. A cornerstone of the recommendation of this study is the need for increased research and monitoring. It advocates for regular surveys to assess manatee populations and habitat conditions, using technologies such as GPS tracking and acoustic monitoring. These tools would provide valuable insights into manatee movements and help identify critical habitats requiring protection.

Another important factor is community engagement. The research emphasises the role of local communities as stewards of the environment. Educational campaigns aimed at dispelling myths and promoting sustainable fishing practices are essential. Involving local stakeholders in conservation, planning and offering alternative livelihoods, such as ecotourism, could reduce reliance on exploitative activities.

The establishment of protected areas and the enforcement of existing wildlife protection laws are also crucial. The authors recommend designating parts of the Lower Sanaga Basin as manatee sanctuaries, with regulated access and support for community-led monitoring initiatives. Strengthening institutional capacity and fostering collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions are necessary steps to implement these actions effectively.

These findings support the importance of the Lower Sanaga Basin as a significant conservation area for the West African manatee and highlight the value of combining local ecological knowledge with scientific analysis for effective wildlife monitoring and protection.

The plight of the West African manatee in the Lower Sanaga Basin underscores the urgent need for integrated conservation efforts. The research provides a valuable roadmap, but success will depend on sustained commitment from both national authorities and local communities. Protecting these gentle giants is not only an ecological imperative but also a cultural and socio-economic opportunity for Cameroon.

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