Mongabay · Climate & nature

Rachel Ikemeh Wins Rolex Award for Niger Delta Red Colobus Monkey Conservation

Nigerian conservationist Rachel Ikemeh has received a 2026 Rolex Award for her work protecting the critically endangered Niger Delta red colobus monkey and the region's ecology through community engagement.

The Niger Delta red colobus monkey (Piliocolobus epieni), also known as epieni, is among the world's 25 most endangered primates. Its population has drastically declined from an estimated 10,000 in 1993 to just hundreds by 2013.

In 2021, Ikemeh and colleagues helped establish a 1,010-hectare community-protected area in Apoi. By 2024, the monkey population within this area had doubled from 180-200 individuals in 2021. Additional community conservation areas have since been created in neighboring communities.

Ikemeh views the award as validation for the community-based conservation model, noting a significant shift in local attitudes from suspicion to pride in protecting the epieni.

Despite progress, significant threats persist across the Niger Delta, including oil pollution, rampant logging, overfishing, hunting, and black sand mining. The monkey's small, confined population remains vulnerable to disease or unrest.

Funding for conservation efforts is largely dependent on short-term grants, and underlying economic pressures like poverty and lack of jobs remain challenges for the communities.

The 100,000 Swiss franc ($123,000) award will support the establishment of four new community conservation areas, including the region's first locally managed marine conservation area, and fund a mobile environmental education program.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.