Conservation
PASA works to tackle the critical threats facing primates and build local capacity.
We work in partnership to harness the local knowledge and expertise of our sanctuary network and combine it with supporters worldwide to address the threats facing Africa’s great apes & monkeys—habitat degradation, illegal trafficking, disease, and climate change.
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A shocking 60% of primate species are facing extinction and wild primates now face greater threats from illegal poaching and trafficking than ever before. Poachers will kill older family members for meat and sell the younger ones into the illegal pet trade. Some apes and monkeys spend their lives in small cages in unaccredited zoos and amusement parks that are becoming increasingly popular in China. Others are trafficked to private exotic pet collections in the Middle East, while some live on short leashes or chains as pets in Africa.
Sanctuaries play a key role in the fight to end trafficking. Without proper sanctuaries, wildlife authorities and law enforcement have nowhere to send confiscated animals, making it difficult for laws to be enforced.
PASA implements programs across Africa to strengthen the capacity of sanctuaries and local governments to tackle the wildlife trade and protect wild primates. We work closely with local law enforcement agencies to arrest wildlife smugglers, confiscate illegally captured animals, and give them lifelong medical treatment and care. We also provide guidance to new sanctuaries and wildlife centers to further develop conservation programs on the ground.
Combatting the Illegal Wildlife Trade
PASA tackles wildlife crime by rescuing animals from trafficking, improving collaboration, and building the capacity of local organizations to protect wild primates.
PASA accredited sanctuaries facilitate the enforcement of wildlife laws by providing safe housing for animals confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade. Beyond this, they use their considerable local expertise and connections to build momentum to tackle this devastating trade.
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We also partner with our alliance and government agencies to build capacity in law enforcement and judiciary systems, employ cutting-edge technology to identify poaching hotspots, and disrupt trade routes.
Strengthening Environmental Protection
PASA is a unified voice for African primate sanctuaries during global policy conventions, where we advocate for stronger wildlife and environmental protections. This global representation is crucial for sanctuaries to share their firsthand knowledge and alert policymakers of the current threats facing primates.
We advocate for laws and policy changes that address urgent threats to the long-term survival of Africa’s endangered primates. Additionally, we work with several coalitions of animal welfare and conservation organizations seeking to strengthen legal protections for animals worldwide.
Building Local Capacity
Through conferences and workshops, awards and recognitions, and a vast network of global experts, PASA helps develop the leaders of tomorrow. We empower local stakeholders and conservationists through extensive education and training, cultivating a robust network of well-informed conservation advocates who are equipped to make a significant impact.
PASA offers a wide range of programs to build local capacity in veterinary training, leadership development, and strategic planning. PASA’s Sanctuary Workshop brings sanctuary leaders together to problem-solve and build capacity. Trainings cover diverse topics such as enclosure construction, disease prevention, financial planning, fundraising, and social media. PASA has two recognition programs to identify and develop future leaders in Africa’s wildlife protection movement.
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