Eco Travel Gambia has wrapped up its highly acclaimed two-day West African Bird Fair and Ecotourism Conference, held at the serene Gunjur Dalaba Ecolodge from December 13-14. The event drew a diverse crowd of local policymakers, conservationists, ecotourism experts, bird enthusiasts, students, politicians, researchers, and nature lovers from across The Gambia and neighboring countries.
This year’s theme, “Conservation of Hooded Vultures for Ecosystem Services and Sustainability,” spotlighted the critical plight of the Critically Endangered Hooded Vulture. Recent months have seen alarming incidents of mass poisonings and beheadings across The Gambia, including cases in Gunjur, Burufut, and other areas where dozens of these scavengers were targeted, often for belief-based uses involving their heads. Organizers emphasized the need to raise awareness of these threats, underscoring vultures’ vital role in maintaining ecosystem health by clearing carrion and preventing the spread of disease.
The conference highlighted The Gambia’s status as a premier birding destination, explored its untapped ecotourism potential, and outlined strategies for sustainable management of community-based initiatives. It achieved notable success, with strong participation from delegates and local vendors alike.
Attendees engaged in insightful panel discussions covering key topics such as “Osprey Migration and Coastal Bird Research,” “The Extraordinary Migration of British Birds and Why the Gambia is The Best Birding Destination,” “Conservation Efforts for Protecting Hooded Vultures in The Gambia,” “Environmental Sustainability and Ecotourism Promotion,” “Enhancing Food Security and Ecosystems Health through Sustainable Land Management,” and “Marine Turtle Conservation as a Catalyst for Turtle-Based Ecotourism in The Gambia.”
The second day featured an immersive field excursion along the Gunjur coastline and into the Bolong Fenyo Community Wildlife Reserve. Participants observed terns, gulls, and various coastal species firsthand, gaining a deeper appreciation for birding’s contributions to conservation, local economies, recreation, research, and long-term sustainability.
Cultural performances by Gunjur’s Black and White Band added vibrancy, enriching discussions on ecotourism development, climate action, environmental protection, and resource conservation.
Eco Travel Gambia expressed profound gratitude to all attendees for their valuable insights and active involvement, which fueled meaningful knowledge exchange. Organizers eagerly anticipate reconvening next year to build on this momentum.
The event reinforces The Gambia’s growing reputation as a hub for responsible ecotourism, blending biodiversity conservation with community benefits amid pressing environmental challenges.
