The role of Indigenous Pygmy communities in biodiversity management and protecting endangered animals

Indigenous Pygmy communities play a crucial role in restoring and protecting forests, particularly in the conservation of great apes. Their deep knowledge of the forest, sustainable traditional practices and role as custodians of tradition make them essential partners in protecting biodiversity. Communities contribute to forest management, restoring degraded areas, monitoring forests and passing on knowledge. However, Pygmy people often face threats to access to their ancestral lands and the loss of forests through logging, agriculture and other activities. They may also experience discrimination and marginalisation. PPSDR and SLC-asbl.