Biodiversity, Traditional Knowledge System & P.t. ellioti Conservation

Due to the close relationship between biodiversity and cultural diversity, traditional knowledge systems do play an important role when developing species conservation and management strategies. This means that tapping traditional knowledge system, together with more typical scientific data are helpful means for the conservation of the fast declining Pan troglodytes ellioti considered as the most endangered chimpanzee subspecies and estimated to be as few as 3500-9000 individuals in the wild (Morgan et al. , 2011). The overall objective was to contribute to knowledge on the conservation of Pan troglodytes ellioti by investigating the biodiversity status and traditional knowledge systems as means to facilitate the sustainable management of the Park and Reserve. Data were obtained through recces walk, direct and indirect observations of bio-indicators of chimpanzees and human signs, interviewed administered questionnaires, informal interviews and group discussions. Improving alternative sustainable resources to ameliorate indigenous people social, spiritual, financial and nutritional wellbeing are means to preserving suitable habitats for the remaining wild chimpanzees of the areas.