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On the occasion of International Pangolin Day, celebrated every third Saturday of February, the University of GOMA, through the Faculty of Science and Technology, Department of Conservation and Management of Renewable Natural Resources, organized a scientific and awareness-raising activity under the theme: “Guardians of Pangolins in Action”.

The main presentation focused on: “Strengthening the Future of Pangolins in DRC: An Overlooked but Threatened Animal - Research Results and Community Collaboration”, by Doctoral Student Kambale Malimbo David.

Celebrated worldwide since 2012, International Pangolin Day was initiated to draw attention to the growing threats facing these unique mammals.

The aim of this day is to alert public opinion to the concerning situation of the pangolin and to promote concrete actions for its protection.

To this end, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has established a Pangolin Specialist Group tasked with conducting research and developing appropriate conservation strategies.

Better Understanding the Pangolin to Better Protect It

Ms. Amani Safari Naomie presented the history of this day as well as a detailed report on the biology and ecology of the pangolin.

The pangolin is a small scaly mammal living in Africa and Asia. It primarily feeds on ants, which it captures using its exceptionally long tongue, capable of reaching the heart of ant hills. In case of danger, it adopts a particular defensive strategy: it rolls into a ball to protect the vulnerable parts of its body.

In sub-Saharan Africa, four species are recorded, namely: Manis tetradactyla, Manis tricuspis, Smutsia gigantea, and Smutsia temminckii.

These species are currently facing serious threats, including poaching and habitat destruction.

Doctoral Student Kambale's intervention highlighted the importance of community collaboration in the protection of this species, emphasizing that sustainable conservation involves the engagement of local populations, awareness-raising, and also scientific valorization.

Through this scientific activity, the University of Goma reaffirms its commitment to the protection of biodiversity and the sustainable management of natural resources.

By mobilizing researchers, students, and the scientific community around major environmental issues, UNIGOM confirms its role as a key player in knowledge production and the promotion of sustainable development in the Democratic Republic of Congo.