The article discusses the state of conservation education in Cameroon, highlighting the country's rich biodiversity and the importance of educating young minds about deforestation and climate change. Despite the high number of university graduates, only a small percentage specialize in conservation science. The article mentions several universities and programs that offer environmental and conservation studies. It also covers the role of the Ministries of Forestry & Wildlife and Environment in training professionals and running awareness campaigns. The efforts of individuals like Flavien Ngibaot and organizations such as WWF Central Africa Program in promoting conservation education are also discussed. The article suggests that a collaboration between NGOs and the government could position Cameroon as a leader in conservation education in West Africa.

The article discusses the ongoing issue of illegal ivory and rhino horn trade, highlighting the inadequacy of law enforcement in African ports and airports. It references a TRAFFIC report that emphasizes the need for sophisticated technologies to combat poaching and trafficking. The CITES conference in Geneva set a deadline for Thailand to comply with regulations or face sanctions. Despite international pressure, the illegal trade remains rampant, with Europe and Asia being major markets. TRAFFIC's data shows a high number of seizures, and the article notes that China has become the largest market for ivory. The WWF has criticized Thai laws for enabling the laundering of poached ivory. The article also mentions the need for better port systems in Africa, citing the Douala Port Authority's acknowledgment of the need for improved equipment. Despite the grim statistics on elephant population declines, the article ends on a hopeful note, mentioning UNEP's identification of high-tech, cost-effective counter-poaching methods.

Cameroon has launched a massive communication campaign to combat Ebola and Polio, with the support of various UN agencies and the Minister of Public Health. The campaign was initiated in Kye-Ossi, a strategic location due to its proximity to Gabon and Equatorial Guinea. Although Cameroon has not reported any cases of Ebola, it is considered at high risk. The campaign includes capacity building, knowledge sharing, and the use of multiple languages to ensure message assimilation. Measures such as border closure with Nigeria, distribution of sensitization materials, and the construction of an Ebola Isolation treatment center have been implemented. Additionally, a nationwide polio vaccination campaign aims to vaccinate at least 95% of children and achieve a polio-free Cameroon in 2015.

The article discusses the severe deforestation in Cameroon and its impact on the rainforest's elephant population, which has declined by over 60%. It highlights the efforts of Green Cameroon, an organization led by CEO Masango Sone, in promoting reforestation and sustainable practices. The organization has planted trees and engaged with youth through environmental campaigns. The article also mentions the support provided to local farmers by Green Cameroon, as exemplified by farmer Peter Ngwe Ekan's testimony. Despite these efforts, the organization faces challenges such as funding and government support. Masango Sone advocates for holding those responsible for deforestation accountable and compensating those working on reforestation.

The article, featuring insights from WWF volunteers, discusses the Spiny Forest of Southern Madagascar, highlighting its unique biodiversity and the remarkable water conservation strategies of its plants. The Spiny Forest, which experiences very low annual rainfall, is home to a variety of succulent plants and species like the 'Samanta' tree, which are largely endemic to the region. The local community utilizes the Samanta tree for various purposes, including arts, construction, and as a source of fuel. The article emphasizes the lessons humans can learn from the Spiny Forest's efficient use of resources, contrasting it with human tendencies to waste, particularly in the context of food spoilage. It suggests that by observing and understanding natural conservation methods, humans can improve their management of Earth's resources.

The article discusses the environmental challenges and community development efforts in Beheloke, Madagascar. It highlights the message nature conveyed through extreme weather as the International Day of the Environment was being prepared. The community, which receives less than 600 mm of rain annually, considered the rain a blessing. The article describes the traditional lifestyle of the villagers and their dependence on the sea for sustenance. It also covers the work of WWF volunteers like Gregg Smith, who promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine resources. Efforts to improve living standards include a desalination station and campaigns to change harmful habits like open defecation. Educational initiatives in French and English aim to develop ecotourism to reduce reliance on marine resources. The volunteers are committed to fostering ecologically responsible behaviors for the future well-being of Beheloke and its residents.

The article discusses the impact of the Cameroonian government's decision in 2014 to cut subsidies on petroleum products, which led to a significant increase in kerosene prices. This has particularly affected rural populations, such as 79-year-old Mama Mbeh Nchemanyi from Babessi, who relied on kerosene to light her home. However, the introduction of solar-powered lamps has provided a cost-effective and sustainable solution. The article also covers the government's efforts to expand rural electrification through solar energy projects, with the Minister of Water Resources and Energy, Basile Atangana Kouna, announcing the construction of photovoltaic solar energy plants in partnership with FIDES GESTION and HUAWEI. Additionally, it touches on Cameroon's broader energy and environmental strategies, including President Paul Biya's vision for 2035 and preparations for the Paris COP 21 conference in 2015.

The Yaoundé GEOSOFT Conference, attended by over 60 experts from West, Central Africa, and Europe, highlighted the importance of satellite observation for the management of African forests. The conference, held from October 21 to 24, 2014, included 5 workshops and 20 presentations focusing on forest observation and monitoring projects. Key organizers included the Research Institute for Development, IGN France International, the French Development Agency, and the French Global Environment Facility, with support from Cameroon's environmental ministries. The French ambassador to Cameroon emphasized the role of deforestation in climate change and the need for robust monitoring systems. Programs like

Cameroon faces significant challenges in combating climate change due to heavy floods, high military spending in response to Boko Haram, and pervasive corruption. Despite international loans and anti-corruption measures, the country remains one of the most corrupt globally. Deforestation contributes to emissions, with illegal clearing for agriculture being a major factor. Cameroon is engaged in international climate negotiations and has taken steps to manage forest resources sustainably, including cancelling licenses for illegal loggers and implementing FSC regulations with WWF's collaboration. The article suggests that a collective effort and strong political will are essential to effectively fight climate change.