Expand one of Gabon’s critical National Parks

Plateau Batéké National Park is located in southeastern Gabon and was established over 20 years ago as a part of the county’s land conservation initiative. But recent drone footage and land surveys show rampant deforestation and mining within the park, severely impacting the natural range of buffalo, elephants and rhinos.

Rainforest Trust is working with our local partner, Gabon National Parks Agency (ANPN), to expand the park by 344,460 acres, increasing the total size to 848,612 acres. The expansion will encompass vast rolling savannas, dense riverine networks and large tracts of lowland tropical rainforest, broken only by forest clearings rich in minerals that attract elephants.

This may be the only chance to add this land to the park and secure the unique wilderness of the Plateau Batéké while improving tourism and livelihood opportunities for nearby communities.

Safeguard important habitat for threatened species

The rich mosaic of habitat allows for a wide range of species to thrive in Plateau Batéké. Scientists have confirmed a total of 655 plant species, 373 bird species, 47 mammal species and 14 reptile species in and around the park.

This region is home to the Western Gorillas (CR) and Slender-snouted Crocodiles (CR), Chimpanzees (EN), African Savanna Elephants (EN) and Grey Parrots (EN). Lions (VU), Leopards (VU), African Golden Cats (VU) will all benefit from this protection, as well as White-bellied Pangolins (EN) and Giant Ground Pangolins (EN).

Be a part of our lasting solution

The communities surrounding Plateau Batéké are impoverished, with little opportunity for employment. ANPN will work with local communities and the government to ensure ample jobs are available either working in the park or tourism industry.

Plateau Batéké is an irreplaceable sanctuary that needs increased protection and border stability for the benefit of biodiversity and provide stability and economic growth for local communities.