Mali Elephant Research
One of WILD’s main objectives is to build capacity in the various countries and conservation projects where we work. Increasing information, technology, professional skills and leadership within the field of wilderness conservation is imperative in order for projects, organizations and individuals to stay engaged and inspired! Our works depends on people to drive these initiatives, and therefore, we make a concerted effort to invest in capacity building.
Emmanuel Hema, PhD Program
For example, as part of the Mali Elephant Project, WILD worked with our partners Save the Elephants (Kenya) and Environment and Development Group (UK) to fully fund a four year PhD program at the University of Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso, West Africa) for Emmanuel Hema, the first local researcher to be a part of our Mali project in 2003. Hema, a native of Burkina Faso, has just finished his research, successfully defended his conclusions, and was awarded his PhD in December of 2011. This work has contributed, and will continue to build, great value for the Mali project and to nature conservation in West Africa, just as it is a significant part of Hema’s personal and professional growth.
With his PhD in the field of Applied Biological Sciences, Hema is only the second West African national to be awarded a PhD in elephant research. We thank everyone who donated to this program that built leadership capacity, and created lasting and meaningful impact for the elephants of Mali. Congratulations DR. HEMA!
Learn more about the Mali Elephant Project >
