More than two decades after African forest elephants were wiped out by poaching, Rwanda is assessing the feasibility of reintroducing the species to Nyungwe National Park.
According to The New Times, a feasibility study is currently underway to assess ecological, socio-economic and logistical factors as well as potential human-wildlife conflict and long-term tourism benefits. The government of Rwanda and African Parks, which co-manage the park, say any decision will be informed by this study.
“There are many aspects to consider: ecological, socio-economic, logistical and cost-benefit analyses,” said Protais Niyigaba, Nyungwe National Park Manager. According to park management, reintroducing elephants could help restore ecological balance by controlling invasive vine grass, which has spread in the elephants’ absence. “Elephants feed on such grasses. Reducing vine overgrowth benefits the entire ecosystem,” said Ange Imanishimwe, Country Executive Director of Biodiversity Conservation Organisation.
Imanishimwe also suggested that African Parks should consider reintroducing buffalo, which disappeared from Nyungwe in 1974, and long-term studies into translocating mountain gorillas from Volcanoes National Park.
African Parks did not respond to requests for comment.
