In 2004, Gabon's long serving ruler President Omar Bongo astutely proclaimed a huge area of his country to be set aside as National Parks and reserves. This thread is to celebrate the scenic and natural beauty as well as show the game that inhabit this small corner of Africa. Matthias see what you can find. I am impressed with your recent posts to Libreville and Port Gentil. Have at it!

General information on Gabon´s National Parks

http://www.wcs.org/media/file/gnp-park_map.jpg

In the continual endavour to satisfy the aspirations of the Gabonese people, Gabon proposed a new direction by which they can make better use of the abundant but little known riches that exists in the country today. As stated in the famous tales of La Fontaines, it requires hard work and dedication if we are to make the best use of these hidden treasures Today, Gabon possess some of the last surviving intact populations of elephants, gorillas and other large mammals on earth. The forest harbour trees that have stood for over a millennium as well as countless species of plants and birds.


A garden of Eden where man can admire waterfalls as well as hippos bathing in the surf of the Atlantic Ocean. Off the coast the sight of whales displaying to one another, untroubled by predators, is one of nature's great spectacles.

It is our joint solemn duty to preserve the natural beaty for Gabon and for all of humanity. It is for this reason that President El Hadj Omar Bongo decided to create a network of 12 National Parks.


AKANDA 540 KM2 Gabons principal stopping off point for migratory birds
BIROUGOU 690 KM2 Part of a biologically rich forest refuge from drier periods of the past
IVINDO 3000 KM2 Huge elephants, gorillas that have never met humans, great waterfalls
PETIT LOANGO 1550 KM2 Elephants on the beach, surfing hippos, with humback whale acrobatic offshore
PARC DE LA LOPÉ 4970 KM2 Biggest mandrill troops ever recorded, traces of humans from 400 000 years ago
MAYUMBA 80 KM2 The most important nesting site for leatherback turtles on earth
MINKEZBE 7570 KM2 Rock domes towering over the forest, the biggest unhabitated forest block in Gabon
CHRYSTAL MOUNTAINS 1200 KM2 Majestic mountains, and a key biodiversity hotspot
MOUKALABA DOUDOU 4500 KM2 Relict savanna fauna such as waterbuck and jackal
MWAGNE 1160 KM2 Probably Gabons biggest bai (waterhole clearing) in a forest where gorillas and elephant abound
BATAKE PLATEAUX 870 KM2 Scenic mangrove and beaces facing Libreville
WAKA 1070 KM2 In nountainous Mitsogho country, a deep rift valley over 100 km long in a block of ancient forest

[B]Total 29200 KM2 forest or 10*% of Gabon



Parc National du Petit Loanga


Situated between the Nkomi and Ndogo Lagoons, Loango is the Jewel of Africa's western coast. Mike Fay called Loango ' Africas' Last Eden' and Nick Nicols from National Geographic made pictures in Loango of surfing hippos. They both called Loango ' Land of surfing hippos'. The 1550 Km variety of savanna, pristine beach, forest and mangroves is a must see in Gabon.
Loango offers breathtaking panoramas and the unique opportunity to observe elephant, buffalo, hippo, gorilla and leopard venturing onto the white sand beachfront.


The largest concentration and variety of whales and dolphins after South Africa can be found right off the Loango coast. The humpback whales and killer whales are easy to observe. The area has over 100 kilometres of uninhabited coastline. This is the most beautiful spot on Africa's western coast - where forests, savannas, westlands, lagoons and ocean meet. Loango is renowed worldwide as a site for tarpon of record size, as well as many other large saltwater fish.

Previously classed as a faunal reserve, the zone is acknowledged by IUZCN as a Critical Site for conservation. Also a Ramsar Site, it has recently been proposed as a World Heritage Site.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/1/1d/GA-Petit_Loango.png


http://www.operation-loango.com/new_images/fotobook/DSC_0069_b.jpg

http://www.cobra-verde.de/altb/data/upload/20060722115051.jpg

http://www.planete-urgence.org/images/banque_images/baleine_photoOL.jpg

http://www.planete-urgence.org/images/banque_images/elephant_photoOL.jpg

http://www.gianlucanigro.net/gabon/medium-imgp0394.jpg

http://cestovatele.asmat.cz/fotky/velke/10256_v.jpg

http://www.farsideafrica.com/pics/gabon/evengue/large/gorilla_mum_babe.jpg

http://www.farsideafrica.com/pics/gabon/large/whales.jpg

http://www.farsideafrica.com/pics/gabon/large/elephants_buffalos.jpg

http://www.farsideafrica.com/pics/gabon/large/coastal_line.jpg

http://www.farsideafrica.com/pics/gabon/tassi/large/elephants_on_beach.jpg

http://www.farsideafrica.com/pics/gabon/tassi/large/walking.jpg

http://www.farsideafrica.com/pics/gabon/tassi/large/sunset.jpg

http://www.farsideafrica.com/pics/gabon/akaka/large/jungle.jpg

A lodge in the national park


http://www.operation-loango.com/new_images/f_akaka_b.jpg

http://www.cobra-verde.de/altb/data/upload/20060722115123.jpg

The accommodation

Loango lodge is an exclusive lodge offering uninterrupted views of the luscious surrounding bush and overlooking the calm river that separates the lodge area and the national park. The lodge is situated on the edge of Petit Loango National Park, famous for its variety of unspoiled landscapes and its inhabitants such as gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, buffalos, leopards etc.

The small-scale lodge consist of 7 bungalows all supplied with private terrace, air-conditioning, fan, mini bar, toilet and a shower with hot and cold water. Most of the bungalows have a superb view on the calm river and overlook the National Park.

Facilities

The lodge has also 3 suites with many extra facilities such as an extra sitting room, bath, mini bar, hairdryer, coffeemaker and extra personal service and care. Both bungalows and suites are traditionally decorated. French, International or Gabonese meals are being served in the river restaurant or, if you prefer, at your private terrace.


Another lodge:

http://www.cobra-verde.de/altb/data/upload/20060722115225.jpg

"POINT SAINT CATHERINE" BEACH CAMP



Point Saint Catherine is 30 minutes (8 km) by boat from Loango Lodge and a few hundred metres north of the Iguéla Lagoon mouth. There are miles and miles of peopless beach perfect for just relaxing or taking extended walks, shell collecting, as well as some sheltered bays for swimming. In the turtle season (October - February), marine turtles nest on the beach at night. For fisherman, from September to March, there is often world-class fishing a minute's walk from one's tent. Late in the humpback whale season (June - September), female humpbacks pass close inshore with their newly born calves. The surrounding coastal forest, fringing lagoon, and mangroves shelter abundant bird life and smaller mammals. And during the rainy season, St. Catherine sunsets are something special.

ACCOMMODATION AND FACILITIES

The camp's five dome tents, mounted on wooden platforms and shaded with palm thatch are nestled into the coastal forest right on the beach's edge. Each tent is comfortably outfitted, has its own private bathroom with toilet and bucket shower, and sleeps two. At night bamboo torches provide gentle lighting and although there is a restaurant/lounge deck, most evenings will be a feet-in-the-sand beach barbeque affair.

SCIENCE AND SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM

St. Catherine Beach Camp is also a marine surveillance base from where Operation Loango staff conduct an hourly watch primarily for illegal fishing activities. During the turtle season, another Operation Loango team is based at the camp, gathering scientific data on turtle nesting activity and behaviour.

ACTIVITIES

Activities
During your stay at Le Camp de Saint Catherine, the following activities are available:

* The beach - walking, beachcombing, swimming, etc
* Sportfishing
* Sea kayaking
* Various walks that showcase the surrounding habitat
* Turtle walks (October - February)
* Beach cycling (tide dependant)

HERE IS A LINK WITH ALL THE PARKS AND THE TOURISTS SITES OF GABON

http://www.ecotourisme-gabon.com/en/stgabon.htm#


LE PARC NATIONAL DE LA LOPÉ

Lope National Park - Home to 400 of the 680 bird species in Gabon – including the rare rock fowl - and approx. 60 different species of mammal including forest elephant, lowland gorilla, chimpanzee and mandrill. The Reserve has an estimated population of 1,350 mandrills (usually visible in July-August) and 3000-5000 lowland gorillas; whilst one makes every effort to track these primates they are fast moving and elusive and viewings are not guaranteed.
Accommodation is at Lope Hotel, a comfortable lodge located on the edge of the Ogooue River. From here travellers have access to Mikongo Camp from where one can do primate walks into the forest.


lOCATION:

http://www-radar.jpl.nasa.gov/africamap/graphics/cafrica/gabon/lopetext.gif


http://www.wcsgabon.org/Lope/Lopeforest.JPG

http://www.kheussler.de/im1/44/4410.jpg

http://perso.orange.fr/monafrique/gabon/photos/activites/lope05.JPG

http://www.daveliggett.com/ImagesTravel/TravelAfricaGabonLopeBosqueEdge2.jpg

http://perso.orange.fr/monafrique/gabon/photos/divers/flore05.JPG

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/wildworld/images/profiles/terrestrial/at/lg/at0723a_lg.jpg



http://www.daveliggett.com/ImagesTravel/TravelAfricaGabonLopeForest6.jpg

http://www.daveliggett.com/ImagesTravel/TravelAfricaGabonLopeCamelHill.jpg

LOPÉ CONSERVATION AND TRAINING CENTRE

http://www.wcsgabon.org/Training/TrainingCenter.JPG



THIS IS A LODGE

http://www.worldprimatesafaris.com/images/accommodation/big/Lope%20Hotel%20banda.JPG

http://www.worldprimatesafaris.com/images/accommodation/big/Lope%20Hotel%20communal%20areas%20(Large).JPG

http://www.gianlucanigro.net/gabon/medium-imgp0460.jpg

http://www.gianlucanigro.net/gabon/medium-imgp0463.jpg

http://www.kheussler.de/im1/44/4409.jpg

http://www.ewatravel.com/pics/La_Lope_PCV_teaching_English.jpg

TAKEN FROM MONT DE BRAZZA

http://www.kheussler.de/im1/44/4438.jpg

I HAVE FORGOTTEN THE MAP OF THE RESERVE DE LA LOPÉ

http://www-radar.jpl.nasa.gov/africamap/graphics/cafrica/gabon/LOPE_MPG.GIF

Gabon is also a country within Africa where you will be able to cross the Equator

http://www.toyota.co.za/timbuktu2006/images/gallery/gallery_13_big.jpg

A well-written article on Gabon´s national parks. It is well worth reading it


Africa´s new Costa Rica in the making

Gift of the Gabon

Gabon has an astonishing variety of wildlife - the only place in the world you can see gorillas, hippos surfing the waves and whales in the same day. And now it aims to become the Costa Rica of Africa. With a vast sprawl of virgin rainforests and teeming wildlife, Gabon is The Ghost Who Walks territory. Its major cities, however, are a sophisticated bustle of glitz, lights, and casinos. Gabon offers a little of everything to just about everyone.

Melanie McGrath reports

Saturday January 21, 2006
The Guardian

"Of all the rooms at Loango Lodge," says Serge, fussing with the shutters of an immaculate okoumé wood bungalow overlooking Iguéla lagoon in the small central African republic of Gabon, "this is Mr Rombout's favourite. He's coming here you know, very soon, they say. You may even get to meet him."
Serge leaves me to admire the view of sharp blue waters softening to treacle at the banks where trees and jungle lianas dip down to meet them. In the reeds below the bungalow, a large black and yellow ornate monitor lizard suns itself and a clutch of African grey parrots clatters in the shade of an oil palm overhead. Loango Lodge is Rombout Swanborn's dream. It is also his great gamble. From his favourite room overlooking Iguéla, it's easy to see why he took it.
Son of a Dutch Shell employee and a teacher, Swanborn spent much of his childhood in Gabon during the oil boom years of the 1970´s which made this highly urbanised, sparsely populated and still largely forested country one of the richest and most stable in sub-Saharan Africa. Swanborn struck gold at an early age by inventing a device to separate oil from water out on the rigs and in 2000 he established a fishing lodge on the edge of an area of coastal forest in the south of the country in a region known as Loango.
Two years later President Omar Bongo signed over 28,500 sq km of Gabonese rainforest, savannah and coastline to create the country's first national park system and, he hoped, a new tourist economy. Rombout Swanborn seized the moment, sinking $7m into Operation Loango, which now constitutes the largest and most impressive of the joint ventures dreamed up by government, private enterprise and the Wildlife Conservation Society, among others, to kick-start eco-tourism in this lovely, emerald-forested gem of a country.
It's probably no coincidence that about 11% of Gabon is now national park, a percentage matched only by Costa Rica. All the talk at Loango is of Gabon as the future Costa Rica of Africa, an unspoiled, high-end eco-tourist destination. The comparison isn't as strange as it might sound. Aside from their fabulous natural heritage, both countries are the stable, relatively wealthy exceptions in unstable, impoverished regions; both have governments very supportive of tourist development; and both believe in harnessing private enterprise to fund national environmental and conservation initiatives. Already, Operation Loango has funded primate research and a beach clean-up.
Swanborn's Operation Loango, the plush fly-in lodge with those immaculate and luxurious bungalows, plus a series of smaller lodges and bush camps strategically placed around Loango national park and a couple of research camps, is currently a prototype for the kind of eco-tourist development Bongo and Swanborn would like to see developed in Gabon's 12 other new parks and, for the visitor at least, a good place to start. According to Dr Lee White, the British head of the Wildlife Conservation Society in Gabon, Loango is "the most beautiful park in Africa".
He may well be right. Serge and I took a boat trip around the park's whisky-coloured rivers and blue lagoons, into the still, musty gloaming of the rainforest and then out once more into the blaring sun, across an estuary towards the Atlantic and Loango's 100km of empty, soft-sanded shoreline. Every so often we moored up, surprising a herd of red river hogs, with their tufty ears and Star Wars' Yoda faces, or stopping to watch a group of forest elephants that had come down to the shoreline to graze on ibago, a hallucinogenic root. Loango is the only place in the world where you can see gorillas, chimpanzees, buffalo, turtles and humpback whales within a stone's throw of one another; the only place in the world where forest elephants come down on to the beach and hippos surf the waves. This variety was one of the reasons I'd come. The other was to try to spot one of the country's 35,000 Western Lowland gorillas.
Gorillas were part of the reason Bongo decided to create the parks, after listening to a presentation by Lee White and Mike Fay. Fay is an American naturalist who completed a 2,000-mile, 456-day trek called the "Megatransect" of the great Congo basin jungle which comprises the largest area of undisturbed rainforest in Africa and of which Gabon is a part. During his trek, Fay came across populations of so-called naive gorillas and chimpanzees, apes that had never come across human beings and so had no fear of them. It seemed like a good time to act.
The jungle of the Congo basin is the setting for Joseph Conrad's novel, Heart Of Darkness. Its hero, Marlow, describes his experience as "like travelling back to the earliest beginnings of the world". This is what attracted Swanborn and his millions to this former French colony, as it attracted the fictional Kurtz before him. Gabon really is the Africa of water rivers, cascades and misty, primeval forest; the Africa of pygmies and mythical dinosaurs; the Africa which, 100 years ago, lent the Dark Continent its mystique and its name. Serge, his fellow eco-guide Basile and I wandered across Loango for days without seeing another human being.
The only large predator species in Gabon are leopards, shy nocturnal creatures, and crocs (all three African species - the Nile, the African dwarf and the slender-snouted - live at Loango) so punch-drunk on fish they'd be unlikely to bother with human beings. A rather nasty snake, the Gabon viper, lives in the forest and there are the real but limited dangers presented by elephants, hippos and gorillas, but the attitude towards these animals is relaxed, or reckless, depending on your view. In our search for gorillas, Basile and I were caught out while kayaking on a backwater creek too narrow for comfort or, as I realised all too late, for safety, by a gnarly hippo, who tried to bring the kayak down. Basile immediately steadied the boat and we were fine, though shaken. Back at the lodge, the incident was met with a Gallic shrug, as if to say, well, yeah, you know, merde happens.
The upside of this randomness is the freedom to do your own thing, including gorilla-spotting. There are no expensive licences to be bought, no medicals to undergo, no time-limits as there generally are in the gorilla-watching parks in Uganda or Rwanda. Serge, Basile and I just hung out.
We were meandering in the savannah one day when from the edge of the forest a lone silverback suddenly appeared only 15 metres ahead of us. Coming face to face so unexpectedly with this fantastically muscular hulk in all his terrific, shaggy wildness was stupendously exciting. He sat and watched us for a while, weighing the risk of crossing a patch of open ground to reach the forest on the other side. Finally he ventured out, then lost his nerve and knuckle-cantered back to his previous spot. Two minutes later he gathered his courage, made a second foray and this time reached the other side and disappeared into the trees, stopping only for a final look back at us.
Researchers working at Operation Loango later told us our silverback was almost certainly M'bolo (Old Man), as they'd called him. He had crossed that way before. You can tell it's him, they said, because he smells of sponge cake. They are hoping to habituate M'bolo, initially to their presence, then to that of visitors like us. At which point, gorilla watching in Gabon may well become as expensive and as regulated as it is in Rwanda or Uganda. And for M'bolo's sake, let's hope it does.
One of those rooting for Gabon to go Costa Rica's way is the South African tourism manager at Loango Lodge, Edward Truter. "Gabon has the potential to become the Costa Rica of Africa, but it'll take some time," he says. For those who can come equipped with some French, flexibility and a willingness to endure a little roughness around the edges, the place has a great deal to offer: high canopy primary rainforest, savannah, mangrove and white sand beach with turquoise waters around which live 60,000 forest elephants, 64,000 chimpanzees, six species of whale, including, during June and July, around 3,000 humpbacks, three species of marine turtle, supertroops of rare mandrills, manatees and, of course, those gorillas.
On my last night at Loango, Basile took me on a moonlit walk along the beach looking for nesting turtles. We saw only a few recent turtle nests, a few forest elephants, some cat and mongoose tracks, bats and a Nile croc, but it was warm and the forest was singing with night things, and way out at sea the Mordor-like flares of the rigs which first brought Rombout Swanborn to these shores glowed tangerine. I thought of M'bolo and hoped Gabon would Costa Rica-fy quickly enough to protect him but imperfectly enough to leave the country feeling as wild and old as it does now.
The next day, the Lodge's Cessna having suddenly become unavailable, reserved, I suspected, for Swanborn's imminent visit, I left Loango for Port Gentil, a four-hour boat journey along the M'pivie river with its slowly whorling papyrus islands. We stopped briefly to admire St Anne's, an obscure mission designed by Frenchman Gustav Eiffel.

Well, the following pictures are not all showing the national parks of Gabon but they show the country´s beautiful tranquil and varying landscape, so I put them here, too:) !

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/chasseur.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Mbe_arbre1.jpg

old historic churh in Central Gabon "La Mission Protestante de Ngomo"

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Ngomo.jpg

Daybreak on the River Komo

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Komo_Lev.jpg


"Rivière Evaro"


http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Evaro_riviere_Master.jpg

Reflections on the "Rivière Mpivié"


http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Fer_Vaz_refl1b.jpg


http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Komo_0524_13.jpg

Coastal Savannah


http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Coline-Nyonie.jpg

all three folloing pics show "Les Plateaux Batéké" (region around Franceville south eastern part of Gabon, it really looks like Ireland a bit)

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0086Plat_Batb.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0084PlatBat.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0083PlatBat.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/leconi_canyon_3501_14.jpg



"L´île de Conniquet"

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0023isl_coniq.jpg

La Mission de Sainte Anne/Saint Anne (built by Gustave Eiffel)

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/SteAnne13_15.jpg


Ekwata (Central Gabon)

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/ekwata_lucie.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Ev0509_4.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Nyn_pdi_bs.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/nyonie_lac3.jpg


http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Buffalo_Iguela.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/8340_MdeC_Riv.jpg

A selection of some of Gabon´s interesting flora

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0211_helic_Psittac.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Fleur_0747_20b.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0194_helic_elog.jpg


http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0252_ricin.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0262museanda_det.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0259museanda.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0846ant_orch.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0259museanda.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/0196roseporc2.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/orch_gab4.jpg

http://www.davidharwood.co.uk/images/Fleur_fourm0748_20.jpg

Nice Pics..

btw Matthias, isnt River KOMO in Nigeria? or we have a river with the same name in Gabon?


Also, do u have pics of the Yankari Game Reserve?

kboy, to be honest with you I do not know if there is a river called Komo in Nigeria, too. but as you can see there is one in Gabon!

I think that I will upload some pics of of Yankari Game Reserve, if I find any, maybe you can do it if you have time and feel in the mood, it would be nice!

http://www.atlasgeo.net/photos/Gabon2.jpg

http://www.gabonnationalparks.com/media/image/langoue2.jpg

This river is called "Fleuve Ogouée"

http://img2.travelblog.org/Photos/11183/99478/f/651598-Ogoou-River-0.jpg

The plains of Iguela

http://www.paulaugustinus.com/loango/buff-savannaL.jpg


http://www.gateway2africa.org/pics/Gabon/DSCF1036.JPG

driving through "no-man´s land" in Gabon

http://www.expeditionoverland.com/photogallery/JournalPicsAfricaMediumRes/2003-06-18%2017-19-00.JPG

Two more photos showing "La Lopé"

http://www.ophidite.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=16099&g2_serialNumber=2

http://www.ophidite.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=27785&g2_serialNumber=2

Waterfall called "Chutes de la DJOUMOU"

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/104/308748311_be46930a56_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/115/308748309_0f4b7efec3_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/39/118818307_fe48ad52a4_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/36/118828146_bbeecc308c_o.jpg

Waterfall called "Chutes de la Bouba"

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/19/110408230_ef5a64f4e4_o.jpg

The following photos are taken in the National Parc "Plateaux Batéké"

http://www.compagniedukomo.com/2emeniveau/journal_17/photos/bateke1.jpg

another map to locate that area:

http://www.masuku.org/HO_fichiers/ethniesho.jpg

some information on the National Park:

In the southern uninhabited part of the Plateaux Batéké

Park highlights

* Gorilla vision
A program of reintroduction of gorilla orphans into the forest is underway, run by the Howletts Foundation. This will lead to the organization of gorilla-watching for tourists
* Fantastic landscape
The savanna-clothed hills spread down to ribbons of forest following the upper Mpassa river. This river, with its idyllic clear turquoise waters, has cut out wild and magnificent canyons, many of which are still unexplored.
* Birds
The exceptional diversity includes many birds which are absent elsewhere in Gabon. Hundreds of storks stop here during their annual migration.
* Animal life
We find Gabon’s well known mammals - elephant, buffalo, sitatunga and the like - in the ribbons of forest. Species typical of the Plateaux include the “Ntsa” (Grimm’s duiker) and possibly the few lions remaining in Gabon . This area is the last refuge for the larger mammals of the Plateaux.

Nick Nicols Copyright National Geographic MagazineInternational status

* The area has been identified by IUCN as a critical site for conservation.

Tourist facilities

* Several eco-lodges are planned and some are already under construction in that area
* The biggest regional city called Franceville is not too far away


This is "Cayon Rouge"

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/38/99183895_3f30cd8bd2_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/19/99183894_d2e0d3cd16_o.jpg

http://www.ophidite.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=16089&g2_serialNumber=2

This is "Cayon Vert"

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/23/31232044_bd731546eb_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/23/31232043_09bfaaf3b2_b.jpg

This is "Cayon Blanc"

http://imagineressources.linternaute.com/document/image/540/canyon-deserts-cirque-plateaux-lekoni-11259.jpg

http://www.ophidite.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=16087&g2_serialNumber=2

Amazing scenery taken in the national parc mentioned above

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/22/31241290_9bb1c2cd50_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/21/31238726_e1179e2460_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/28/65847466_1c608efb4a_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/34/65847463_de076d2b90_b.jpg

http://www.ophidite.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=27783&g2_serialNumber=2


http://www.bateke.com/bateke/sons_images/culture/mpugu%20mo%20.jpg

These waterfalls are called "Chutes de Poubara"

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/37/78809315_e75d9b2d93_o.jpg


http://farm1.static.flickr.com/27/65847464_309034c181_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/39/78809314_bb0f18f6ea_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/42/78809313_aa7bcb3da2_o.jpg

http://perso.orange.fr/monafrique/gabon/photos/paysages/franceville/poubara01.JPG

http://imagineressources.linternaute.com/document/image/540/barque-campagne-pirogue-lac-plateaux-11270.jpg

on the way to Omboué

http://www.ophidite.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=27779&g2_serialNumber=2

http://www.ophidite.com/gallery2/main.php?g2_view=core.DownloadItem&g2_itemId=27800&g2_serialNumber=2

Gabon looks really beautiful - so much in such a small country. I'm hoping to go gorrilla trekking one day.

Some more pics....

http://www.surmely.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10001/ENEF-8729.jpg

http://www.surmely.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10001/Nyonie-9226.jpg

this is a designated hiking trail from "l'Ecole Nationale des Eaux et Forêts" in Gabon

http://www.surmely.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10001/ENEF-8632.jpg

Savane au niveau de l'équateur

http://www.surmely.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10001/Nyonie-9410.jpg

Buffalos in the Park "Wonga Wongué"

http://www.surmely.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10001/Nyonie-9236.jpg

This is a designated hiking trail from "l'Ecole Nationale des Eaux et Forêts" in Gabon

http://www.surmely.com/cpg/albums/userpics/10001/ENEF-8632.jpg

exquisit.

Some more landscape shots

http://us.a2.yahoofs.com/users/9qMzOfy4SytP/__sr_/48c9.jpg?tkn=ph8mkDGB1_xgGD6q&saveas=Foret+08

just look at the size of trees

http://us.a2.yahoofs.com/users/9qMzOfy4SytP/__sr_/5a61.jpg?tkn=ph8mkDGBOOTkoD5b&saveas=Foret+03

This is taken inside the National Parc de la Lopé

http://www.lyceeblaisepascallibreville.com/IMG/5-_Sejour_a_la_Lope_12_-2.jpg

you can go directly by train

http://www.lyceeblaisepascallibreville.com/IMG/5-_Sejour_a_la_Lope_46_.jpg

This is Mission Lambaréné

http://www.lyceeblaisepascallibreville.com/IMG/1.jpg-3.jpg

Albert Schweitzer Hospital in the middle of the jungle near the town of Lambaréné

Some important facts about him:

Albert Schweitzer, M.D., OM, (January 14, 1875 - September 4, 1965) was an Alsatian theologian, musician, philosopher, and physician. He was born in Kaisersberg, Alsace-Lorraine, Germany (now Kaysersberg, Haut-Rhin, Alsace, France). He challenged both the secular view of historical Jesus current at his time and the traditional Christian view, depicting a Jesus who expected the imminent end of the world. He received the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize in 1953 for his philosophy of "reverence for life"[1] expressed in many ways but most famously in founding and sustaining the Lambaréné Hospital in Gabon, west central Africa.

Albert Schweitzer spent most of his life in Lambaréné in what is now Gabon, Africa. After his medical studies in 1913, he went there with his wife to establish a hospital near an already existing mission post. He treated and operated on literally thousands of people. He took care of hundreds of patients with illnesses and treated many victims of the African sleeping sickness.

In 1914 World War I began and because he was a German in a French colony, Schweitzer and his wife were temporarily placed under house arrest. In 1917 they were sent to be interned in Garaison, France, and in 1918 in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. There he studied and wrote as much as possible in preparation for, among others, his famous book Culture and Ethics (published in 1923). In July 1918 he was a free man again, and while working as a medical assistant and assistant-pastor in Strassburg, he was able to finish the book. In the meantime, he began to speak and lecture about his ideas wherever he was invited. Not only did he want his philosophy on culture and ethics to become widely known, it also served as a means to raise money for the hospital in Lambaréné, for which he had already emptied his own pockets.

In 1924 he returned to Lambaréné, where he managed to rebuild the decayed hospital, after which he resumed his medical practices. Soon he was no longer the only medical doctor in the hospital, and whenever possible he went to Europe to lecture at universities. Gradually his opinions and concepts became acknowledged, not only in Europe, but worldwide.

Later life

From 1939-1948 he stayed in Lambaréné, unable to go back to Europe in war. Three years after the end of World War II, in 1948, he returned for the first time to Europe and kept traveling back and forth (and once to the USA) as long as he could until his death in 1965.

From 1952 until his death he worked against nuclear tests and nuclear weapons with Albert Einstein and Bertrand Russell. In 1957 and 1958 he broadcast four speeches over Radio Oslo which were published in Peace or Atomic War. In 1957, Schweitzer was one of the founders of The Committee for a Sane Nuclear Policy.

His life was portrayed in the 1952 movie Il est minuit, Docteur Schweitzer, starring Pierre Fresnay as Albert Schweitzer and Jeanne Moreau as his nurse Marie.

He was chevalier of the Military and Hospitaller Order of Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem.

Schweitzer died on September 4, 1965 in Lambaréné, Gabon.

His cousin Anne-Marie Schweitzer Sartre was the mother of Jean-Paul Sartre.

Schweitzer inspired actor Hugh O'Brian when O'Brian visited in Africa. O'Brian returned to the United States and founded the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Foundation (HOBY).


http://www.lyceeblaisepascallibreville.com/IMG/2.jpg-3.jpg

http://www.schweitzer.org/french/spital_1t.jpg

http://www.schweitzer.org/french/refectoire_1t.jpg

this is his room

http://www.schweitzer.org/french/zi-schweitzer_1t.jpg

http://www.schweitzer.org/french/zi-helene_1t.jpg

This is Lac Onagué

http://www.lyceeblaisepascallibreville.com/IMG/4.jpg-2.jpg

General Information concerning Gabon´s tourism sector, so I decided to put this piece of news here. :)

Gabon-France-Tourism


President Bongo, French minister discuss tourism development in Gabon


AFP 13-03-2007 Libreville (Gabon) Gabonese President, Omar Bongo Ondimba, Monday in Libreville, held talks with the French Minister for Small and Medium Enterprises, Trade, Craft Industry and Liberal Professions, Renaud Dutreuil, on the development of tourism in his country, an official source told APA on Tuesday.

The minister, who is heading a high-powered delegation of businessmen from his country specialised in tourism, said at the end of his audience that Gabon could be a good tourist destination.

He noted that his visit was a response to a call made by President Bongo who, some months ago, appealed for massive French support to help boost tourism in Gabon.

"I have come with fourteen heads of companies specialised in tourism. They have just discovered Gabon. And will come back to visit the 13 national parks and the beaches before starting to invest," Dutreuil said, adding that French businessmen were ready to develop ecotourism, seaside tourism resorts and adventure travel.

According to him, French and Gabonese tourism specialists will organise working sessions to address the issues of land property and other things needed to make Gabon a preferred tourist destination.

"Gabon is a clean country which has not experienced massive tourism and needs to be valued," the French minister said.

Despite its huge tourism assets, i.e a 600 km-long coast, a thick rain forest, an abundant varied fauna and unusual sites, the tourism industry is neglected in the Gabonese economy, accounting for only 1% of the gross national product.


PS: Hopefully some fruitful projects will soon be realised!

on the road in Gabon..

..can you spot the misty air and clouds!?

http://www.top-depart.com/Templates/1/1/2/1158/images/photo/408/8826/TP_2993.JPG

nobody will disturb you on this road/area but some animals...

http://www.top-depart.com/Templates/1/1/2/1158/images/photo/408/8826/TP_3007.JPG

http://www.top-depart.com/Templates/1/1/2/1158/images/photo/408/8826/TP_3005.JPG

untouched by humans

http://www.top-depart.com/Templates/1/1/2/1158/images/photo/408/8826/TP_30162.JPG

http://www.top-depart.com/Templates/1/1/2/1158/images/photo/408/8826/TP_3031.JPG

region around the small city of Franceville (South Eastern Gabon)

http://www.top-depart.com/Templates/1/1/2/1473/images/photo/408/6388/TP_018.JPG

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/136/384052839_afaeba7898_o.jpg

in Nyioné

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/85/235317948_bda30ceecb_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/83/235342919_8cdc2f00a2_o.jpg

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Cap Caravane

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/24/62839275_9fdb9dfc10_o.jpg

restaurant boat floating on tranquil water

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/25/62839483_62c41e33de_o.jpg

Sunset on the equator

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/27/64519851_f7fa519d2f_o.jpg

region in South Eastern Gabon

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/210/518606501_c8adb91e19_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/202/518578326_513c0135d5_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/206/518605511_6b39910e7a_o.jpg

Catédral St.Anne built by Gustave Eiffel

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/193/518609155_5d2006d863_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/217/518608477_37a089de29_o.jpg

Inside Ivondo National Park

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/172/401855990_5ac778be82_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/188/396517202_904e5ba786_o.jpg

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http://farm1.static.flickr.com/123/396384182_aed4cc2ad5_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/179/396378551_b6e7d18bb5_o.jpg


inside Lopé National Park

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/76/189593967_8af277ba89_o.jpg

inside Petit Loango National Park

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/170/403534977_357cb1def3_o.jpg

inside an eco-lodge in the park of Petit Loango all natural material from Gabon

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/94/259154440_68159fa464_b.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/121/259103167_c845ca4c88_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/96/259104668_b40da6b790_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/87/259105797_576de5cfe5_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/105/258296463_be3a250086_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/98/259119161_089f0b8c18_b.jpg

these are warthogs

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/87/259128824_971733aaf1_b.jpg

this is Tassi Camp inside the national park of Petit Loanga

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/87/259117272_b01c582906_b.jpg

This is a newly opened privately run hotel near "Lac Evaro" near the town of Lambaréné, it is a very beautiful eco-lodge so watch the video which first shows the setting and then the lodge

Btw, if you watch this short video make sure to listen to the beautiful song by a very famous Gabonese singer as well!

Evaro Village Eco-Lodge

eaQz-6qzyRw&eurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcnom%2Egabon%2Echez%2Dalice%2Efr%2FEAV%2Fprojet%2Fevaro%5Fen%5F1280%2Ehtm

Gosh, what happened to the presentation video of Evaro Village Lodge, it vanished or is it just my PC?

So, I will just try it again, the lodge is really very tastefully decorated and nicely designed, the setting is magnificient and untouched by humankind!:)

eaQz-6qzyRw

Mountain called "Mont de Kalami"

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/153/429507567_4df16274be_b.jpg

Giant trees and lush tropical forest

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/167/386872544_131cab851d_b.jpg

the highest mountain points in Gabon are called "Le Massif du Chaillu"

http://www.africaxplorerr.com/gabon/Gabon%20-%20Voyages%20-%20Decouverte/images/centre-mont-chaillu.gif

Picture taken in July 2007

some more roads

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1018/755310830_436971c1b9_o.jpg

the Equator crossing

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1152/755309244_e1634cf1f4_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1192/754461987_88beadbaec_o.jpg

inside another new eco-lodge in "Petit Loanga" Park:cheers:

http://img218.imageshack.us/img218/1649/loangaco8.jpg

another eco-lodge and the exclusive setting

http://lh6.google.com/YannitoGabao/Rp-NwELKg2I/AAAAAAAAA9A/YrCrnOBEG-o/Photo%20035.jpg?imgmax=912

http://lh4.google.com/YannitoGabao/Rp-OPkLKg5I/AAAAAAAAA9Y/ZEAZjBgtATk/Photo%20044.jpg?imgmax=912

http://lh6.google.com/YannitoGabao/Rp-UzELKhRI/AAAAAAAABAg/1I5KYRWGrAY/Lop%C3%A9%20%2838%29.JPG?imgmax=800

http://lh6.google.com/YannitoGabao/Rp-UHELKhPI/AAAAAAAABAQ/YBaKqmT5ShM/Lop%C3%A9%20%2826%29.jpg?imgmax=800

region in South Eastern Gabon

http://lh5.google.com/YannitoGabao/Rp-Ss0LKhKI/AAAAAAAAA_k/v_o4B_w0uzE/Lop%C3%A9%20%2816%29.jpg?imgmax=800

http://lh4.google.com/YannitoGabao/Rp-VbkLKhTI/AAAAAAAABAw/AeCNogAWKD4/Lop%C3%A9%20%28118%29.JPG?imgmax=800

http://lh6.google.com/YannitoGabao/Rp-XTELKhaI/AAAAAAAABBo/qYjD24aknjw/Lop%C3%A9%20%2880%29.JPG?imgmax=800

http://lh5.google.com/YannitoGabao/Rp-MF0LKgtI/AAAAAAAAA70/esewdfeinWo/Lop%C3%A9%20%28191%29.JPG?imgmax=800

gabon looks a lot like cross river state in nigeria. even has the same animals, though im sure we have more and better ones :)

but i would like to see more of these countries aiming for africa tourists. its a better long term strategy

http://www.atlasgeo.net/photos/Gabon2.jpg

http://www.gabonnationalparks.com/media/image/langoue2.jpg

This river is called "Fleuve Ogouée"

http://img2.travelblog.org/Photos/11183/99478/f/651598-Ogoou-River-0.jpg

from what i hear gashaka gumpti is better than yankari and bigger. i'll look for pics of gashaka.

gabon looks a lot like cross river state in nigeria. even has the same animals, though im sure we have more and better ones

but i would like to see more of these countries aiming for africa tourists. its a better long term strategy

Some parts of Gabon look like Cross Rivers others are different! As for the animals, I don´t know if Nigerian animals are "better"....whatever this means :dunno: What fascinates me about Gabon is that it is so untouched by human nature and settlement once you leave the bigger cities, you are in harmony with unspoilt and unpolluted nature, very good for your spiritual health and balance.

What I like about the country is that more than 10 % of national territories is dedicated to national parks, environment policies are strictly obeyed, too! Gabon leads all African states in environmental control policy.:cheers:

Some parts of Gabon look like Cross Rivers others are different! As for the animals, I don´t know if Nigerian animals are "better"....whatever this means :dunno: What fascinates me about Gabon is that it is so untouched by human nature and settlement once you leave the bigger cities, you are in harmony with unspoilt and unpolluted nature, very good for your spiritual health and balance.

What I like about the country is that more than 10 % of national territories is dedicated to national parks, environment policies are strictly obeyed, too! Gabon leads all African states in environmental control policy.:cheers:

i was joking about the animals being 'better.' however, in cross river the species of gorilla are the rarest in the world. there is also the largest diversity of butterflies in africa, and of course there are the forest elephants, warthogs, leopards and the like. more of those pics of gabon look like cross river than do not. even the Fleuve Ogouée looks almost identical to kwa falls/rapids. http://www.nigerianfield.org/lagos_files/images/kwa_falls.jpg
gabon can afford to leave so much space for parks and have those policies because its population is so small and its land so large, relative to that population. they also have a lot more lodges, and good ones.

Well, the first article has nothing to do with National Parks directly but nevertheless it suits in here, the article dates from earlier this year but it is well worth a read!


Gabon gets recognition of Africa's first forest certificates

afrol News, 4 January 2007

After a lengthy process, Gabon has achieved developing a national forest certification system that is accepted internationally. This first-ever approved African national standard provides wood buyers with proof of sustainably managed forests and should ease Gabonese efforts to get very good prices for their forest products.

Gabon has become the first African member of the international PEFC Council - the so-called Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes. Behind the bureaucratic name, the PEFC plays an important role to assure trade with wood and paper that only stem from sustainably managed forests.

For the Gabonese forest industry, it is quite prestigious to have its home-grown Gabonese Pan African Forest Certification System (PAFC Gabon) admitted into the international PEFC Council. Gabon only becomes the 30th PEFC member in a body totally dominated by Europe and North America.

PEFC Chairman Henri Plauche-Gillon welcomed Gabon as the first African country into the council after members unanimously voted in favour of its membership application. The PAFC Gabon certification system aims at becoming the basis of an all African standard - thus titling itself "Pan African".

Rose Ondo, President of PAFC Gabon, greeted the news of PAFC Gabon's membership in the PEFC Council. "Gabon is the first country to develop a national PAFC system. We are determined to establish standards and procedures that are compliant with the requirements of PEFC," Ms Ondo said. PAFC now is to be opened up to other African nations, wanting to develop their national standards within the system.

According to a PEFC statement, "membership of the PEFC Council now means that PAFC Gabon has taken the first step in its journey towards international endorsement and the mutual acceptance of certified tropical forests in Gabon through the PEFC system."

Before the first Okoumé timber logs - one of Gabon's most important tropical timber species, can be sold with the PEFC label - independent consultants will assess the Gabonese system against PEFC's benchmark requirements. Part of the assessment is a public consultation process, during which all interested individuals and organisations can comment on the PAFC Gabon system.

According to Ms Ondo, "Gabon has more than 10 million hectares of commercial forests offering a wide range of African tropical hardwoods. We are confident that with a PEFC endorsement, we will be able to meet the existing and fast growing demand for certified tropical timbers."

Selling its forest products with the PEFC label, Gabonese timber will be accepted as environmental proof on all major markets - meaning the European and American members of PEFC. This also assured the best possible prices for Gabonese products.

The Libreville government has worked towards PEFC membership for years. Forestry Minister Emile Doumba launched PAFC Gabon already in 2004, stating his ambition for an international recognition of the national certification scheme.

PEFC basically is a framework for the mutual recognition of credible national or regional forest certification schemes that have been developed based on internationally recognised requirements for sustainable forest management. Since its launch in 1999, PEFC has become the largest forest certification umbrella organisation covering national schemes from all over the world.


La Lopé has finally been classified a World Heritage Site by UNESCO:cheers:

Gabon : La Lopé classée patrimoine mondial par l´UNESCO

Publié le : 30/06/2007
Source : unesco
Auteur : Gaboneco

http://gaboneco.com/Pics/Actualite/1183157536-Lope.jpg

Plusieurs nouveaux sites ont été ajoutés, le jeudi 28 juin dernier, à la liste du patrimoine mondial de l'Unesco. L'écosystème et paysage culturel relique de Lopé-Okanda, situé au Gabon, a été retenu en tant que site mixte - culturel et naturel . Il s'agit de la première inscription d'un site gabonais.
© wcsgabon.org


Une quinzaine de sites ont été ajoutés le jeudi 28 juin à la liste du Patrimoine mondial de l`humanité, parmi lesquels le site gabonais de la Lopé-Okanda, la ville de Bordeaux, en France, ou le parc du Teide, en Espagne, par l`Unesco dont le comité ad hoc est réuni en Nouvelle-Zélande.

En sus de l`écosystème et paysage culturel relique de Lopé-Okanda (Gabon), d’autres sites africains ont nouvellement été classés : le paysage culturel et botanique du Richtersveld (Afrique du Sud) et le site de Twyfelfontein (Namibie).

Pour ce qui est du Gabon, il est rappeler que l'écosystème et le paysage culturel relique de Lope-Okanda, établi dans la zone forestière centrale gabonaise, constitue un site, au sens de l'article premier de la Convention du Patrimoine mondial de 1972. Le site de Lope Okanda comprend un ensemble de forks pluviales et de savanes habitées depuis une période très ancienne (près de 400.000 ans) par des populations humaines. L'ensemble constitue un écosystème naturel remarquable et un paysage culturel évolutif fossile, comme défini dans les Orientations devant guider la mise en oeuvre de la Convention du Patrimoine mondial (2002), paragraphe 39 (iii).

Ce site représente un exemple remarquable de l'évolution de la biodiversité au cours des 15.000 dernières années du Quaternaire, comprenant des écosystèmes en mosaïque de forks et de savanes et des écosystèmes forestiers congolais de plaines du nord-ouest dont l'état de conservation est remarquable et hébergeant d'importantes populations de nombreuses espèces menacées animales et végétales.

Le site de Lopé, qui est également un témoignage remarquable de la permanence de l'espèce humaine dans la région, depuis les temps éloignés du Paléolithique inférieur (400.000 B.P.), du Néolithique (3600 BP) et de l'Age du Fer (2.600 - 1400 B.P.), continue d'être l'habitat de populations bantoues et de pygmées Baka et constitue un paysage culturel relique de valeur exceptionnelle et universelle.

Really, I have the best images in my mind of Gabón, La Lopé... I ll put my picture of my trip for the sabanah... I remember my travel in transgabonaise, beautiful.
Nice the pics.
See you...
Nicolás

After the National Park "La Lopé" has been declared a World Heritage Site, Gabon is pressing ahead, it wants that the famous Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Lambaréné to be declared another World Heritage Site in the country. A good sign in the right direction:cheers:

Gabon: Le Gabon voudrait inscrire l'Hôpital Schweitzer de Lambaréné au patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO

Libreville, 7 Octobre 2007 (GABONEWS) - L'Hôpital Albert Schweitzer de Lambaréné, dans la province du Moyen-Ogooué (Centre du Gabon), pourrait être inscrit au Patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO, a confié dimanche la ministre de la Culture et des Arts, Blandine Marundu à GABONEWS.

L’idée de faire figurer cette structure hospitalière au nombre des biens les plus précieux de la planète est, en effet, créssée par les autorités gabonaises, ainsi que l’a fait savoir la ministre de la Culture et des Arts, en marge du Congrès de son parti, le RPG, auquel elle participe.

Mme Marundu a laissé entendre que des démarches en vue de cette inscription sont menées depuis plus de deux ans sans tambour ni trompette auprès de l’Organisation des nations unies pour l’éducation, la science et la culture.

« L’hôpital Albert Shweitzer de Lambaréné est donc pressenti par les plus hautes autorités de notre pays pour figurer sur la liste des biens et sites les plus précieux de la planète. C’est un long processus, mais sachez que c’est un site que nous avons identifié, ce n’est pas le seul, en tout cas », a expliqué la ministre de la Culture et des Arts.

Autant qu’on sache, effectivement, lors d’un Conseil des ministres, au palais présidentiel, Blandine Marundu avait esquissé cette idée qui, au fond, ne date pas d’aujourd’hui, en faisant valoir que pour tout pays la liste des biens à proposer au Comité du patrimoine mondial n’est pas limitative

Le projet, qui avait été à l'époque bien accueilli par le défunt
président du Sénat gabonais, Georges Rawiri, figure emblématique de la scène politique gabonaise, naguère associé en amont et en aval pour nombre d’initiatives de développement à caractère économique, social et culturel, entreprises dans sa ville natale de Lambaréné, voire, dans la province du Moyen Ogooué.

Plus que jamais, cette initiative est soutenue activement par une association dénommée "Association pour le classement par l'UNESCO de l'ancien Hôpital Albert Schweitzer" (ACUHAS), ainsi que par d'autres personnalités, notamment le délégué permanent de France auprès de l'UNESCO, Jean Gueguinou.

Une mission de cinq membres de l'ACUHAS doit séjourner du 30
octobre au 4 novembre à Libreville et à Lambaréné où elle aura
des entretiens avec les autorités politiques et administratives locales
au sujet de cette candidature de la Fondation Schweitzer au
Patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO.

Le Gabon, sous l’impulsion de son président Omar Bongo Ondimba a engagé une vigoureuse politique de diversification de l’économie en prélude à l’après pétrole, qui accorde la priorité à la préservation et la conservation de son patrimoine naturel et historique.

En vue de hâter cette nouvelle économie gabonaise du 21è siècle, le gouvernement s’estime fondé à croire que ce projet visant à inscrire le vieil hôpital au patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO peut constituer le déclic attendu depuis longtemps pour le tourisme écologique en gestation.

Le Gabon a déjà réussi à faire admettre les sites de Minkébé et de la Lopé Okanda dans la province de l'Ogooué-Ivindo, sur la liste du patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO après moult négociations patiemment entamées en 2001. Une première.

On rappelle que la préparation du dossier gabonais soumis à l’UNESCO a demandé un énorme travail de la part d’experts en archéologie, anthropologie, biologie, botanique, écologie. Il pourrait donc en être de même avec ce projet.

Lors de l’ultime round, en Nouvelle Zélande, le gouvernement a dépêché la ministre de la Culture et des Arts, Blandine Marundu qu’assistait l’ambassadeur du Gabon à l’UNESCO afin de persuader l’Union mondiale pour la nature (UICN) de l’intérêt de placer ces sites sur la même ligne que les pyramides, la Grande barrière de corail, et le Grand Canyon, en leur reconnaissant une valeur dépassant largement les frontières gabonaises, en un mot, une valeur universelle.

GN/JCK/07

Koungou Falls in Ivindo National Park - described as Central Africa´s most beautiful waterfalls

Current controversy and civic protest surrounding the planned Chinese hydro-electric project. I do hope that it is shifted to its initially planned location which is located outside the national park!

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http://bchernoff.web.wesleyan.edu/falls.DSC_0074.med.jpg

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http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/pics23/langouewaterfall.jpg

http://www.wcsgabon.org/Ivindo/Djidjichutes.JPG

matt, those pics are not good at all, no, they are OUT OF THIS WORLD. i am just craving for more pics.

More good news concerning strong NGO involvement in the preservation of national parks...the national forest iministry is giving good support to those the civic organisations.



Gabon : Les ONG environnementales et la gestion des parcs nationaux

Publié le 04-12-2007

Le secrétaire général du ministère de l’Economie forestière, Michaël Adande, a reçu le 3 décembre dernier à Libreville les ONG environnementales pour la mise en place d’une plate-forme de gestion des parcs nationaux.


La rencontre du 3 décembre dernier entre le secrétaire général du ministère de l’Economie forestière Michaël Adande et les représentants des organisations non gouvernementales qui oeuvrent pour la protection de l’environnement avait pour objectif de mettre un terme aux malentendus autour du projet d’exploitation du fer de Belinga ; notamment sur ses effets néfastes sur l’environnement.

Dans son allocution de circonstance, Michaël Adande, assisté de conseiller juridique du ministère, a déclaré qu’il avait été mandaté pour informer les responsables des ONG de la disponibilité des pouvoirs publics à œuvrer pour une meilleure gestion des parcs nationaux.

Le projet de mettre en place un organe de gestion des parcs nationaux devrait permettre aux ONG de devenir des partenaires incontournables pour la gestion de ces espaces qui constituent tout de même 11% du territoire gabonais.

Concernant la promesse de don de la Banque Mondiale aux ONG, monsieur Adande a estimé qu’ il était impératif que les interlocuteurs du gouvernement se concertent et proposent des représentants au sein de l’organe de gestion des parcs nationaux.

Les représentants des ONG ont quant à eux demandé l’accès au décret d’application de l’organe signé afin de pouvoir s’imprégner convenablement de la tâche qui leur est impartie.

Cette rencontre aura permis aux deux parties d’accorder leurs violons sur les modalités de la mise en place effective d’un organe de gestion des parcs nationaux.

Rappelons que c’est lors du sommet mondial de la Terre tenu à Johannesburg en Afrique du Sud en septembre 2002, que le président gabonais avait pris la décision de consacrer 11% du territoire national pour la création de 13 parcs nationaux.

The article principally deals with the construction of top-end (luxury) eco-tourism projects in Gabon which are planned by Vincent Bolloré´s (France).
Dubai investors are sheduled to arrive in Gabon in February to discuss tourism projects among other planned investments.
We have seen the construction start of the Lybian-Gabonese huge project (three towers) last December.
Unfortunately, the new hyper-modern international airport project is still pending: due to harsh IWF regulations and increased and continued pressure from local and international environmental NGO´s groups. (although the site for it and contractors for it already exist):ohno:



Vincent Bolloré se lance dans le tourisme.

(Gabon Eco 24/01/2008)

Le Président directeur général du groupe français Bolloré, Vincent Bolloré a été reçu le 22 janvier dernier à Libreville par le président Omar Bongo Ondimba. Le PDG du groupe Bolloré est venu informer le président gabonais des nouvelles perspectives d’investissement de son entreprise au Gabon. Son groupe veut diversifier ses investissements et investir dans le tourisme de haut de gamme.

Présenter au chef de l’Etat gabonais les nouvelles perspectives d’investissements du groupe Bolloré au Gabon a été la substance de l’audience que le président Bongo a accordé à Vincent Bolloré, le président directeur du groupe français Bolloré.

Selon le PDG du groupe Bolloré la visite de Libreville était une nouvelle occasion de réaffirmer les engagements du groupe vis-à-vis du Gabon et de les améliorer en créant de nouvelles activités porteuses d’emplois pour les gabonais et gabonaises.

« Nous sommes venus réaffirmer au Chef de l’Etat notre attachement au pays, lui dire que nous étions entrain de poursuivre et d’augmenter nos investissements. Nous employons aujourd’hui à peu près 4500 personnes, nous investissons une quinzaine de milliards de francs CFA, nous faisons travailler beaucoup de monde, et nous croyons en l’avenir du Gabon » a déclaré Vincent Bolloré au sortir de l’audience.

Cette audience à laquelle prenaient également part le premier ministre Jean Eyeghe Ndong et le vice président de la république, Divungui Di Djob Di Ndingue a également permis au Président directeur général du groupe Bolloré de présenter aux membres du gouvernement son champ d’activités et d’exposer sa vision pour le développement du Tourisme au Gabon avant de rappeler que le groupe s’est engagé au Gabon dans la réalisation d’un certain nombre de chantier appelé à être achevé dans les mois à venir.

« Nous devons finir un certain nombre de travaux importants, un pont sec à Franceville, nous avons également la réfection du Port d’Owendo qui est un investissement de plus de 10 milliards de francs CFA, nous nous sommes engagés à ce qu’ils soient finis dans 12 mois, donc il faut que les travaux commencent. Le Chef de l’Etat, d’ailleurs, a été posé la première pierre, il faut que nous finissions dans les délais et que l’on ait fait à côté des travaux logistiques, qui pourraient par exemple accompagner les projets de mines dans le Fer ou dans d’autres projets, nous sommes intéressés par le Tourisme. Nous pensons que nous pourrions faire une expérience de tourisme haut de gamme, peut-être écologique, avec du chauffage solaire, de l’électricité solaire, des matériaux de durable, puisque le Gabon a à la fois la chance d’avoir une côte exceptionnelle et le bord de l’océan lui aussi. Un intérieur passionnant avec une faune, une flore, des références historiques, des arbres, nous pensons que là encore, il y en a peu, parce que personne n’a osé faire le premier pas et au fond nous aimerions faire ce premier pas sachant que peut-être que ça marchera ou pas, mais en tout cas nous souhaitons entreprendre », a longuement étayé Vincent Bolloré.

Publié le 23-01-2008 Source : Gaboneco.com

Gabon : Le parc national des Plateaux Batékés à la recherche d'un plan de gestion

Publié le 19-03-2008


Mettre en place un plan de gestion du parc national des Plateaux Batékés pour mieux coordonner les besoins et les actions des différents acteurs impliqués dans la conservation et la protection de l'environnement, c'est l'objectif de l'atelier de planification des activités du parc national des Plateaux Batékés organisé à Lékoni, dans le Haut-Ogooué, par le ministère gabonais du Tourisme avec le concours de l'agence nationale des Parcs nationaux.



Réunis depuis le 16 mars à Lékoni, dans la province du Haut Ogooué, les experts du ministère du Tourisme et de l'Agence nationale des parcs nationaux réfléchissent à la mise en place d'un plan de gestion pour la coordination des besoins et des actions de différents acteurs oeuvrant pour la conservation et la protection de l'environnement singulièrement les parcs nationaux.:cheers:

Cet atelier est l'occasion pour les autorités politico administratives de la province du Haut Ogooué de lancer un appel aux différents experts pour faire des propositions qui puissent satisfaire chacune des parties et aller au bénéfice du parc national des plateaux Batékés.

Selon Bernabé Bangalivoua, le secrétaire général de la province du Haut Ogooué "le présent séminaire est l'occasion d'interpeller ici tout les acteurs du secteur qu'il s'agisse des opérateurs économiques, des administrations publiques ou privées, des communautés villageoises et des associations, pour développer des synergies permettant de garantir une gestion durable de notre patrimoine naturel qui s'affiche désormais comme un produit phare sur le marché émetteur de recettes".

Le parc national des plateaux batékés fait partie des treize parcs nationaux créés en 2002 par le chef de l'Etat gabonais Hadj Omar Bongo Ondimba au sortir du sommet de la terre à Johannesburg en Afrique du sud. Ce réseau de 13 parcs est une réponse partielle au problème du rejet des gaz à effet de serre dans l'atmosphère à l'origine de la destruction de la couche d'ozone. Il constitue cependant un formidable levier de développement grâce à son riche potentiel touristique.

Le Gabon qui s'est engagé dans la diversification de son économie pour préparer l'après pétrole mise sur le développement du tourisme, notamment l'écotourisme qui se présente aujourd'hui comme l'un des segments le plus rentable de l'industrie touristique.


:cheers::cheers::cheers::banana:

A brief translation please?

Here is a good video concerning the development of fishing tourism in Gabon. One fishing tourism development is already located 300 km South of Libreville in a mythic landscape, so beautifully untouched! You also see eco lodges and camp sites etc.:cheers:

Watch the video to learn more about it

http://www.dailymotion.com/relevance/search/gabon%2Btourisme/video/x3c1qk_liberty-tv-la-peche-au-gabon

For the those interested among you , here is a link about the desription of Nantional Parks of the country. It is in English, so everybody can read it

http://www.gabonmagazine.com/gab-web/G9_ENGLISH/GABON9.lope.pp30-33.pdf

some updates


Inside la Lopé National park

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lodge

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driving into Gabon from Cameroon and nature

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thick Gabonese forest

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two protected national parks

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hotel in sette Cama

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wild beach next to the national park

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still in sette Cama

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this is Camp Vembo

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baby gorilla

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this is Camp Yenzi

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inside national park

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giant trees

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Lodge in Sette Cama

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little "insect museum" in Sette Cama

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There is an 18 hole golf course in national park near Camp Yenzi, a bit weird, right in the wilderness but the setting is awesome!

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:)

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nothing special just a plain tourist camp called Mikompe Camp

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Transgabonais Railway taking you across the country from Franceville to Libreville...btw a pharaonique project when in was built at a staggering cost of more than $2 Billion in the 80´s

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Ivindo River

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Pics taken in March 2008 .....I wonder who is driving on these roads

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Mvipié river

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St Anne one of the countries oldest church built by Gustave Eiffel

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an eco-lodge

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an area called Saint Cathérine

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flying over virgin rainforest:cheers:

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gorilla family

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Gabonese officials are pressing heavily to declare Albert Schweitzer´s Hospital as another UNESCO World Heritage SITE in their country. Lopé National Park was declared World Heritage Site two years back! International experts will soon decide about it



Gabon : L'hôpital Albert Schweitzer se dessine une place au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO


L'hôpital Albert Schweitzer de Lambaréné va accueillir le 19 avril une visite d'évaluation des experts internationaux dans le cadre de sa candidature pour son inscription au patrimoine mondial de l'Organisation des Nations Unies pour l'éducation, la science et la culture (UNESCO).

© D.R.

L'hôpital Albert Schweitzer, qui a fait de Lambaréné la ville gabonaise la plus connue à l'extérieur du pays, recevra le 19 avril prochain une visite d'expertise en vue de la présentation d'un dossier pour l'inscription de ce site au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO.

Le conseiller politique à la coordination générale des affaires présidentielles, Jean François Owaye, représentant la partie gabonaise dans l’association pour l’inscription du vestige au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO, a déclaré le 18 avril que cette visite sur les lieux en compagnie du président de l’Association, Philippe Arvel, permettrait d’apporter l'expertise technique nécessaire à la finalisation du dossier avant sa présentation définitive à l’UNESCO.

L'association qui s'occupe de monter le dossier avait déjà effectué une visite à Lambaréné le 14 avril dernier au cours de laquelle ils s'étaient entretenus avec les autorités locales pour s'accorder sur les modalités de répertoriation du site.

L'inscription du site au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO ne concernerait l’ancien pavillon de l’hôpital, construit en 1925 par son bâtisseur, le prix Nobel de la paix de 1952, le docteur Albert Schweitzer.

Les responsables de l’association expliquent par ailleurs que le classement de ce site au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO pourrait avoir des retombées touristiques très positives pour le développement de l'activité socio économique de la région et la préservation des infrastructures d'origine.:cheers:
.
Monsieur Owaye a également décliné les perspectives de cette reconnaissance internationale pour le développement du secteur touristique sur l'étendue du territoire nationale, notamment grâce au panorama publicitaire mondial que ce site pourrait ouvrir.

Le projet de l'inscription de l'hôpital Albert Schweitzer au patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO a été initié en 2005 par Philippe Arvel, vice président de la communauté urbaine d’Arras, en Suisse, avec le concours du délégué permanent de l’UNESCO en France, Jean Guiguenou ainsi que le soutien du défunt président du Sénat gabonais, Georges Rawiri.

Si le projet abouti, l’hôpital Schweitzer deviendra le deuxième site gabonais inscrit au patrimoine de l’humanité, après la reconnaissance du parc national de la Lopé Okanda intervenue en 2007.

Publié le 19-04-2008 Source : Gaboneco.com

New bird species discovered in rainforest of Gabon

August 23, 2008



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A male specimen of the newly-discovered olive-backed forest robin is examined in the hand of Brian Schmidt, the Smithsonian ornithologist who discovered the species. (Credit: Brian Schmidt)


DNA analysis has revealed a previously unknown species of bird in the Central African country of Gabon.

The species, the olive-backed forest robin (Stiphrornis pyrrholaemus), was first observed by Smithsonian scientists in 2001 during a field expedition in southwest Gabon. At the time it was believed to be an immature individual of an already-recognized species but subsequent research showed the bird differed in coloration from known forest robins. Genetic analysis confirmed the bird was indeed an undescribed species, becoming the 753rd bird species documented in Gabon. Little else is known about the species, but some researchers are nonetheless enthusiastic about the find.

"This discovery is very exciting for us," said Alfonso Alonso, who directs the Biodiversity Program in Gabon. "Finding the olive-backed forest robin strongly underscores the importance of our research. This helps us show the conservation importance of the area."

"Although finding an unknown species like the olive-backed forest robin was not the goal of the MAB project it is definitely a reminder that the world still holds surprises for us," added Brian Schmidt, a research ornithologist at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History and a member of its Monitoring and Assessment of Biodiversity Program. Schmidt is the lead author of the paper that describes the olive-backed forest robin. The research is published in the August 15, 20008 issue of the journal Zootaxa.

great..exquisit pictures..whatta astonishing place...one God´s gift that MUST be preserved..as the other tropical-savanna areas allover the world. Interesting mix of different kinds of vegetation, as can be seeing on that Nat. Park..marvellous fauna...gorillas (that need an intense care and good conditions from it´s well being), beaches full of whales..variety of birds, mammals, etc..and what about those colorfull leaves on the trees??..it seems that u are in a mild-climate place..at fall!!!!but that´s in a tropical rainforest!! Blessed is that country..I hope that those kind of politics by creating nat. parks can be kept..with sustainability, showing that tourism can bring much more insumes and development than predatory hunting or green davastation..with basic education and good principles, we can achieve a better quality of living and preserve a marvellous treasure like that. God Bless.

This should be the number 1 eco-tourism destination in the world (Costa Rica holds that crown now), but the political will is weak, Ive never even seen an advert for Gabon before.

Come on, in the world????
Malaysia has all that to offer, too.

Maybe in Central Africa but as far as this is concerned it already holds the "crown" which is not really an achievement given the fact that the surrounding countries are even doing less than what Gabon does in this sector!


But I agree with you on the big adverts, they are not there....unfortunately, they are only targetting a small niche of travellers, you will find trips bookable to Gabon but at a price. (often in connection with Sao Tome or only Gabon)

France, the UAE are looking for eco-projects in this area in order to open up the country.

Gabon should be targetting aggresively European tourists in particular, it is just a seven hour flight from Europe and with no nasty jet-lags! (a big advantage to countries like Malayisa or Costa Rica, if you ask me)

The people that have visited Gabon are all going into raptures...I can send you the links if you feel like reading them.

great..exquisit pictures..whatta astonishing place...one God´s gift that MUST be preserved..as the other tropical-savanna areas allover the world. Interesting mix of different kinds of vegetation, as can be seeing on that Nat. Park..marvellous fauna...gorillas (that need an intense care and good conditions from it´s well being), beaches full of whales..variety of birds, mammals, etc..and what about those colorfull leaves on the trees??..it seems that u are in a mild-climate place..at fall!!!!but that´s in a tropical rainforest!! Blessed is that country..I hope that those kind of politics by creating nat. parks can be kept..with sustainability, showing that tourism can bring much more insumes and development than predatory hunting or green davastation..with basic education and good principles, we can achieve a better quality of living and preserve a marvellous treasure like that. God Bless.

Thank you for your interest.:)

I hesitated to add any beach pictures because they are not defined areas for National Parks (apart from Petit Loango Park) ..but heck, I don´t want to open a special thread especially for them

this region is really crying for tourism development. Beaches around Port Gentil Area

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water quality:cheers:

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More good news, world famous Jane Goddal chimpanze (the lady that dedicated her life to the exploration of chimpanzé) resserve will open in Gabon and an institute for the education of kids in respect of nature and animals (biodiversity)...there will also be a sceintific research station:cheers:

Gabon : L'Institut Jane Goodall France au chevet des chimpanzés


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L’Institut Jane Goodall a annoncé le 27 octobre l'ouverture prochaine d'une antenne au Gabon qui sera piloté depuis la France dans l’objectif de mener des actions de protection des chimpanzés sauvages et des projets d’éducation au respect de la biodiversité. Déplorant la perte de la moitié des effectifs gabonais des grands singes en vingt ans, l'antenne gabonaise permanente de l'institut devrait permettre de développer des programmes de protection, de recherche, d’aide aux populations et d’éducation environnementale.

© D.R

Face à l'inquiétant phénomène d'extinction des populations de grands singes au Gabon, l'institut Jane Goodall a annoncé le 27 octobre dernier à Paris l'ouverture imminente d'une antenne permanente au Gabon, pilotée depuis la France.

"Désireux de contribuer aux efforts locaux en faveur de la préservation de la biodiversité et devant l’urgence de la situation, l’Institut Jane Goodall France a décidé de créer une antenne au Gabon pour y développer des programmes de protection, de recherche, d’aide aux populations et d’éducation environnementale".

L'antenne gabonaise de l’Institut Jane Goodall devrait s’implanter sur un site permettant de mener à la fois des actions de protection des chimpanzés sauvages et des projets d’éducation des plus jeunes au respect de la biodiversité, ainsi que des programmes centrés sur les communautés, destinés à leur assurer un développement économique et social respectueux de l’environnement.

"Fort de son expérience dans d’autres pays d’Afrique depuis plus de trente ans, l’Institut Jane Goodall sait que la bataille de la préservation des ressources naturelles ne peut se gagner sans l’implication pleine et entière des populations locales. La présence de grands singes sur leur territoire constitue un atout qui doit être valorisé".

Le territoire gabonais est recouvert à 80% de forêts tropicales qui abritent de nombreuses populations de grands singes. L’Institut a dressé le constat selon lequel les grands singes de cette région seraient victimes de pressions démographiques et économiques, à travers le braconnage, la déforestation et le commerce illégal, et auraient perdu en vingt ans plus de la moitié de leurs effectifs.

"Si ce phénomène perdure, gorilles et chimpanzés risquent de disparaître dans les 10 prochaines années", met en garde l'institut Jane Goodall.

Le Gabon est en Afrique centrale un pays pionnier en matière de préservation de l’environnement, mais malgré la création de 13 parcs nationaux en 2002, les pressions démographiques et économiques demeurent considérables et représentent une menace permanente pour la survie des populations de grands singes.

"Pour mener à bien ce projet, l’Institut Jane Goodall France a plus que jamais besoin du soutien du public et de ses partenaires français".

L’Institut Jane Goodall France ne bénéficie d’aucune aide publique ni d’aucun partenariat avec des grandes entreprises. 90% de ses recettes, générées essentiellement par les dons, les adhésions au programme de parrainage et par les ventes de la boutique en ligne, sont investies sur le terrain et seulement 10% sont octroyés aux dépenses de fonctionnement.

Depuis plus de 30 ans, l’Institut Jane Goodall inscrit son action dans une démarche globale de protection de la biodiversité, d’aide à la gestion durable et équitable des ressources naturelles, et d’éducation des plus jeunes.
Depuis 1977, l’Institut Jane Goodall protège les chimpanzés en milieu naturel, gère des réserves et créé des sanctuaires qui accueillent majoritairement des chimpanzés orphelins dont les mères ont été victimes de la chasse, de la déforestation et du commerce illégal.

Publié le 31-10-2008

beaches around the small city of Port Gentil...look at the water quality, excellent:cheers:

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National park Petit Loanga

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lodge

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Church Saint Anne ..this church was built by Gustave Eiffel, the same architects that built Eiffel Tower in Paris

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again another lodge

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baby aligator

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this forest is truly too dense:ohno:

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http://lh5.ggpht.com/_Bz9WFPX3H4w/SRVc1uB5_xI/AAAAAAAABDk/H8WBWgSEKow/s912/2008_10_Ombou%C3%A9_102.JPG

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at a camp in the bush

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http://lh4.ggpht.com/_xQhEUSDQjXs/SQ1a4uT412I/AAAAAAAACMw/KJBPaz-Boho/s800/26102008096.jpg

another eco-lodge

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_xQhEUSDQjXs/SQ1aWcJXJ7I/AAAAAAAACLo/sbe0COWa6F4/s912/26102008079.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_xQhEUSDQjXs/SQ1aZ99eGLI/AAAAAAAACLs/r_pWtQiXODA/s912/26102008080.jpg

another lodge in a national park

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_lRVOWbUkQ-I/SSKI7EWpxdI/AAAAAAAAAlc/lvl3smzvepA/s912/IMG_1389.JPG

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Source: Flickr (jeanlou (http://www.flickr.com/photos/31963237@N00/))

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Nice New lodge in Petit Loanga´s National Park...all mad in Gabon material

http://www.roox.at/dyn_pics/Image/Bilder_Gabun/Gabun_Luango__Lodge_01_trekking.at.jpg

Region around Leconi and Franceville (South Eastern Gabon)

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_2z6jWBS_Y94/SeNJGUpvmFI/AAAAAAAADPk/AGSHAk0kWAE/s320/Gabun49.jpg

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especially for camping

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_2z6jWBS_Y94/SdnY4sbWs7I/AAAAAAAADDk/LxZWu7MmyvU/s320/Kamerun089.jpg


Equator crossing

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An interesting article about Gabon

Enchanted forest of Gabon

By Davide Scagliola, Special to Explore
Published: April 24, 2009, 22:41

Gliding over the brown waters of the Ivindo, with the oil lamp illuminating the stern, it seemed as if I was travelling suspended in a dark green hyperspace, which encircled our dugout canoe made from okumè wood.

Firmin, the captain, watched through the gloom, searching for floating logs and sandbanks. The sounds of the forest were all around as the sky disappeared to the inky-black distance.
Men in boats

We travelled another five miles downstream until we could hear the distant rumble of the Kongou Falls: a crescendo of decibels that played like a heavy shower drumming on the corrugated iron roofs of a shantytown.

Our camp was just beyond the last of the little rapids that preceded the great cascade.

We had left early that morning from the market in Makokou, a city with few redeeming attractions in the northeast of Gabon. We had bought supplies — vegetables, fresh fruit, packets of freeze-dried soup — and picked up a crew in Loaloa, a village that earns a living from selling sand collected from the riverbed.

We had to cross a dozen rapids, precariously balanced in these handmade dugout canoes. It wasn’t dangerous — just that the river was almost dry. And there was no other way to cover the 40 kilometres that separated Makokou from the falls and our camp.

But the pirogues were long and thin, and constructed almost without a keel to enable them to navigate the shallow waters of the dry season.

There was little water and at some points we were stranded on the gravel of the riverbed. Our belongings were stacked in the stern as a balance — and to keep them from getting wet. We could have gone on foot through the tannin-coloured, watery-and-vegetation-filled darkness. We paddled instead.

A little later, we gathered around a fire, where spicy fish soup bubbled in a pot.

The rumble of the cascades was soporific.

We couldn’t even gaze at the stars for distraction: clouds thick as snowdrifts remained firmly in place beyond the fringe of branches obscuring the sky. There was nothing else to do except bundle up in our sleeping bags.

Deep in the forest

When we awoke, it was barely possible to comprehend that time had moved on. The sun never reaches the forest floor. It reflects off the branches and leaves to create a diffused and soft light.

We went sleepily down to the foot of the cascades and looked up at the sky — another heavily overcast day.

Gustavo — a co-founder of Trust The Forest — some villagers and I bathed, while Firmin and his skilful crew threw nets into the frothy pools.

They made us lunch and we did our laundry as we talked about how to save the rainforest from the big logging companies.

The trees were the real reason we were here.
Gabon has two basic resources: wood and oil. Following independence from France and the arrival of mining and logging companies, the economy grew.

But the flood of currency also had a detrimental impact on the country’s work ethics. The hardest and most labour-intensive jobs are done by migrant workers, mainly from Cameroon, Congo-Brazzaville and Equatorial Guinea.

In 2002, President Omar Bongo Ondimba declared that Gabon would change the system of logging permits — cutting quotas — and create 13 national parks. The timber companies were moved out of protected areas.

More than 11 per cent of the country, almost 30,000 square kilometres of rainforest, was declared a zone of global interest. In collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and other environmentalist groups, the borders of the newly protected areas were set.

But even today there are no governmental park guards and there is little control of the protected lands. The logging companies are encroaching within the park boundaries. But there are some foundations and associations — such as WCS, Trust the Forest and World Wildlife Foundation — that protect the land and conduct research. They employ local staff, creating ties and trust with the people there.

Stationary safari

After Kongou Falls, Gustavo and I moved to the Langoué Bai, in Ivindo Park. We were a short distance from the WCS researchers, who kept an eye on the bais, or glades, which are home to elephants, antelope, buffalo and gorillas.

We experienced a stationary safari for the first time. For several days, we remained perched on a wooden tower, watching animals pass by 10 metres below us.

Then we returned to Libreville to rest our aching limbs before heading south.

The first lagoons along the Atlantic coast begin south of Port Gentil: a collection and transportation hub for the timber industry.

We landed in Ombouè, a village surrounded by savannah. Tour guides from Operation Loango (www.africas-eden.com), were waiting to take us to Petit Evengue, an islet with wooden chalets, a gorilla sanctuary and some wonderful southern African hospitality.

Next morning, blessed with a little sun, we moved on to Iguela Lodge, located on Rembo Lagoon. We boarded a two-level aluminium barge and sailed at five knots on Engowe Channel for the rest of the afternoon.

The riverbanks were covered with green papyrus, glades of savannah and watering holes. We saw elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, wild pigs, pelicans, crane, kingfishers, hornbills and other animals that spend this part of the year living between the flat marshlands and the forest, near the sea.

We returned at twilight to find Akaka Camp lit by torches and candles. An oil lamp was set out on the veranda as the scent of herbal baths, resin and water lilies filled the air.

The shadows of the isombè, padduk, kossipò, mekambo and wengè trees stood out against the night sky. The camp was like an oasis encircled by the rest of Africa and the chirping forest. The ocean was less than a stone’s throw away.

And we slept as soundly as the elephants.

— Davide Scagliola is an Italy-based freelance writer

Go there... Libreville ... From the UAE .. From Dubai

Ethiopian Airlines flies three days a week via Addis Ababa. Fare from Dh4,405

Air France flies daily via Paris. Fare from Dh4,895

Gabon Airlines has five weekly flights from Paris and Marseille. Fare from Dh4,625

— Information courtesy: The Holiday Lounge by Dnata.
Ph: 04 4380454

Thats a great combination of savanna and Sub-tropical landscape!

The beaches in Port Gentil are amazing, you can't get that same quality of beaches on the mainland here, you have to get to islands to get that quality.

Don't know what's the cheapest way to reach Gabon from KL, probably by Air France via CDG/Orly ?

A city close to a national park

Franceville, ville moderne au panorama coloré entre collines et montagnes près des plateaux Batéké

(Gabonews 22/06/2009)

Franceville,(GABONEWS) – La commune de Franceville, autrefois appelée « Masuku », ville moderne au panorama coloré, construite près des plateaux Batéké, est le chef-lieu de la province du Haut-Ogooué, situé à 512 km de la capitale, Libreville, au Sud-est du Gabon et dont GABONEWS va à la découverte.

Terminus du chemin de fer Transgabonais et de la route nationale N3, Franceville est arrosée par la rivière « Mpassa » dont la population était estimée à 31 193 habitants en 1993.

De « Masuku », à l'origine, elle fut rebaptisée Franceville par Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza en 1880, du fait de la ressemblance de ce paysage avec le panorama français.

Construite entre montagnes et collines, Franceville bénéficie d'un climat relativement doux, comparativement à celui de la capitale gabonaise.

Les déplacements, dans cette commune qui compte quatre arrondissements, se passent sans difficultés.

Franceville est devenue une capitale régionale animée. La population s'est regroupée et a augmenté très sensiblement. Les courants d'échanges se sont multipliés grâce aux voies de communication améliorées et praticables d'une manière permanente.

La ville, assez vaste, dispose d’une Université Scientifique appelée « Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku (USTM) ».

Abritant des étudiants de tous les pays africains, son campus vaste, comporte un gros rocher âgé d’environ 3,5 milliards d'années selon les universitaires.

Plusieurs entreprises de référence dont SETRAG (société d’exploitation du Transgabonais), CIM – Gabon (Les ciments du Gabon), la Société d’énergie et d’eau du Gabon (SEEG), entre autres, participent au développement de la cité ainsi qu’à la diminution du chômage chez les jeunes.

Le président gabonais, Omar Bongo Odimba, décédé le 8 juin 2009 à Barcelone en Espagne des suites d’un arrêt cardiaque, a été inhumé le 18 juin 2009 à Franceville, dans sa province natale du Haut-Ogooué, dans la plus stricte intimité.

Thats a great combination of savanna and Sub-tropical landscape!

The beaches in Port Gentil are amazing, you can't get that same quality of beaches on the mainland here, you have to get to islands to get that quality.

Don't know what's the cheapest way to reach Gabon from KL, probably by Air France via CDG/Orly ?

Hi Skyprince:)

I overlooked your reply

Air fares are still quite high!

The most convinient is to fly via Paris or Marseille on Gabon Airlines or Air France. You can also fly via Marocco on Royal Air Maroc or on Ethipian Airlines via addis . there is also a new connection on LH via Frankfurt...possibilities are also via Dubai and Beirut (Lebanon) ...but wait for a couple of years, prices will go down in the future

Come on, in the world????
Malaysia has all that to offer, too.



Gabon is imo certainly on a par with malaysia and costa rica when it comes to ecotourism but none of these countries is of course "better" or "the best"

For me personally Gabon is the highest on the list...but first Uganda.

This is a great series of pix, thank you for the effort! (a bit too much pix on 1 page however, takes for ages to load)

around Port Gentil region

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_W_Uu424mkgs/R_EtQPZcbSI/AAAAAAAABAM/7p5nONfoYIw/s576/DSC07433.JPG

it just the superb and immaculate first class beaches of Gabon (again around Port Gentil)

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_jHlk9t72pjI/SRiZl_lHrcI/AAAAAAAACu4/H26iX2LuqM4/s400/P1000994.JPG

superb water quality

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_jHlk9t72pjI/SRiZokprP4I/AAAAAAAACvA/0yYG9aa_eRI/s400/P1000995.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_jHlk9t72pjI/SRiZrnm0jtI/AAAAAAAACvI/jrOHc4LYsl8/s400/P1000996.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_jHlk9t72pjI/SRiaMrE7MEI/AAAAAAAACwA/alBJh4pp0T4/s576/P1010005.JPG

Gabon is imo certainly on a par with malaysia and costa rica when it comes to ecotourism but none of these countries is of course "better" or "the best"

For me personally Gabon is the highest on the list...but first Uganda.

This is a great series of pix, thank you for the effort! (a bit too much pix on 1 page however, takes for ages to load)

Thing is, Malaysia is great but it takes long time for Europeans (the largest tourist market by far) to get to. And if you're into animals then you can "see" more in Gabon than you would in Borneo..

Matt, the failure of Gabon to develop its tourist industry is incredible. Those beaches are pretty amazing. I see Gabon as a high-end tourist detsination in future.

taking the mystical journey from Libreville to Franceville by train ...also add some pics of the town

train station are Owendo

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inside train

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Gabonese school kids

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Ouguée River

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National Park La Lopé

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Train station of La Lopé

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back on track

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arrived

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city of Franceville (end of journey)

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Léconie Hotel (Le Merdien)

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modern hospital in Franceville:cheers:

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and post office

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in the background train station

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one of the animal feeding station and research centre of Franceville

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in the streets (on a traditional festival)

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La Chute de Bouba:cheers:

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market area of town

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thick dense forest

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forest walking on very long bridge:nuts:

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this is how second class compartment look like, decent if you ask me

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3264/3174440373_d262f2c39d.jpg?v=0

the biggest waterfall of Central Africa

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Gabon has dozens of national airports , this is a small airport in Gamba

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one of the national park teams

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A nice hotel close to the Falls of Poubara:cheers:

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http://www.labogabon.net/tourisme/cartea.jpg

Some snapshots of the zoo park in Port Gentil that was created 25 years ago by a Frenchman...the concept differs from what you know from zoos, he workd strongly together iwth the national ministry of forestry......feeding station for sick animals, that are realsed after they are fit again, there are also shops, cafés and garden with many tropical plants, also a learning centre for pupils...and close contact to université of Masuku in Franceville...and the best is the zoo parc is free of charge!!!...students (of biology) from universities in Europe also come to write their BA or MA thesis there... just read the article ...amazing stuff...also some great future projects in planning stages:cheers::cheers:

http://www.jeuneafrique.com/jaf/AFP/photo_1254695979811-1-0.jpg
Emile Gorayeb, le créateur français du zoo-parc de Port-Gentil au Gabon, le 11 septembre 2009.

"Il adore les tomates et la salade! N'est-ce pas, mon Joe?", dit Emile Gorayeb en donnant à manger à un gorille rescapé du braconnage des forêts environnantes et désormais résidant du "zoo-parc" créé par ce Français à Port-Gentil (ouest du Gabon) il y a 25 ans."


http://www.jeuneafrique.com/jaf/AFP/photo_1254695890420-1-0.jpg

http://www.jeuneafrique.com/jaf/AFP/photo_1254695812044-1-0.jpg

an article dedicated to the creator of this well-functioning zoo park


Le zoo-parc de Port-Gentil


Il existe à Port-Gentil un espace unique au Gabon, un bien précieux. Le Zoo-Parc de Port-Gentil, situé sur la route de la Sogara, face à la zone portuaire, est le fruit de la passion d’un homme pour les animaux et leur environnement, Émile Gorayeb.

Né au début de l’année 1984, le parc a été créé avec l’autorisation du Ministère des Eaux et Forêts. Plus récemment, la Ministère de l’Habitat, du Cadastre, de l’Urbanisme, de la Ville et du Bien-Être a proposé le classement du site comme parc à conserver.

Le but, à l’origine, était de sauvegarder certaines espèces de la faune gabonaise en voie de disparition et de créer ainsi un parc où, dans une cadre calme et paisible, des espaces ont été aménagés pour permettre aux animaux de vivre, de s’épanouir et même de se reproduire dans des conditions proches de leur milieu naturel.

À l’heure actuelle, plusieurs espèces d’animaux se sont reproduites en captivité. Tous ces animaux, nés au Zoo-Parc de Port-Gentil, seront réintroduits progressivement dans leur milieu naturel. Des antilopes Sitatungas ont déjà été envoyés au Parc de la Lékédi, à Bakomba, et d’autres antilopes, ainsi que des gavials et des crocodiles devraient les y rejoindre rapidement. Il en va de même pour les bébés gorilles, récupérés dans un état pitoyable, qui sont soignés et élevés au Zoo-Parc, puis envoyés, dès que leur état de santé le permet, dans la réserve de la Mpassa afin de leur offrir une réintroduction progressive. La sauvegarde des gorilles est un des chevaux de bataille du personnel du Zoo-Parc qui, pour étudier le comportement de ces animaux et leur procurer un cadre de vie adéquat, travaille en relation avec le WWF, Vétérinaires Sans Frontières et le Projet de Protection des Gorilles.

Une véritable entreprise

L’entretien du Zoo-Parc et les extensions en cours de réalisation occupent 20 personnes à plein temps, dirigées par un passionné de nature, diplômé de l’Institut Phytosanitaire du Bénin, Rodrigues Iwangou. Dans cet environnement, différentes espèces de fleurs et de plantes ont été plantées pour que les visiteurs puissent découvrir les richesses et les senteurs des plantes du Gabon. Afin de promouvoir la défense du patrimoine gabonais, le Zoo-Parc est gratuit et ouvert à tous, et ce malgré l’importance des investissements et des frais d’entretien qui sont, jusqu’à aujourd’hui, puisés dans les fonds personnels de son fondateur. Il va sans dire que la pérennité du Zoo-Parc passe par un engagement affectif et financier très important et qu’il serait bienvenu, de la part d’opérateurs économiques, mais aussi des responsables nationaux, de participer à l’entretien et l’embellissement de ce qui est, aujourd’hui, un espace unique et rare de conservation du capital naturel Gabonais.

Car ce havre de paix, qui invite au dépaysement, a également été créé dans un but culturel et éducatif, afin de permettre à toute la population, en particulier les enfants, de s’instruire et de se rapprocher d’une nature si précieuse. Le Zoo-Parc a déjà accueilli un grand nombre de classes, d’associations, de colonies de vacances venues de divers horizons, d’étudiants préparant des diplômes en botanique, en agronomie, en sciences, ou encore des soutenances de fin d’étude, venant de l’Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku, de l’École Nationale des Eaux et Forêts, mais aussi de France ou de Belgique.
L’objet social et éducatif de ce parc est indiscutable et il semble étonnant que sont intérêt touristique échappe encore à la plupart des décideurs politiques du pays. Tous ceux qui ont visités le Zoo-Parc ne peuvent oublier ce qu’ils y ont découvert : une faune difficile à approcher dans la nature et inaccessible à la plupart des visiteurs du Gabon, une flore inconnue des natifs du pays eux-même, un véritable concentré du Gabon et certainement l’un des lieux les plus agréables à fréquenter dans le pays. Adultes et enfants en ressortent charmés et indéniablement instruits.

Les animaux hébergés par le Zoo-Parc proviennent soit de dons, soit d’échanges entre zoos. Toutefois, il est déjà arrivé qu’Émile Gorayeb soit obligé d’acheter des bêtes ou de récupérer des animaux blessés et des bébés abandonnés.

Au cours de la visite du Zoo-Parc, on découvre de nombreux primates (mandrills, cercopithèques, cercocèbes, chimpanzés, gorilles) des Potos de Bosman, des antilopes, des effraies, des potamochères à pinceaux, des crocodiles, des gavials, des pythons, des pocs-épics, des perroquets, des marabouts, des pélicans, des vautours, des aigles, des civettes, des genettes tigrines, des gazelles... animaux sauvages, difficiles à apercevoir dans la nature, même pour les observateurs plus avertis.
Au sein de la petite ferme, on rencontre aussi des familles d’ânes, des chèvres, des cochons, des oies, des autruches, mais aussi des canards, des cailles et toute une faune de volatiles que les enfants découvrent avec passion.

Le parc lui-même est un véritable enchantement pour la vue et l’odorat. En serpentant à travers les espaces botaniques agrémentés de ponts de lianes et de chemins parfaitement entretenus, on y découvre la flore gabonaise agrémentée d’espèces africaines plus rares, introduites et acclimatées par le personnel du parc. Ces espaces évoluent beaucoup d’une année sur l’autre, et les projets d’agrandissement voient le jour petit à petit.

Des projets d’avenir

Le grand projet d’Émile Gorayeb pour les années à venir est la création d’un musée de 1 200 m2, retraçant l’histoire du Gabon et présentant l’art du pays au travers des 9 provinces avec leurs masques, leurs instruments de musique, le mobilier traditionnel, les objets coutumiers, des photos anciennes, etc. Il prévoie aussi la reproduction en miniature de 9 villages traditionnels, avec la représentation de leurs totems ou de leurs sites particuliers. Mais ce projet doit être réalisé conjointement à l’amélioration du Zoo et du jardin botanique avec une clôture pour les 200 000 m2 du parc, un étiquetage exhaustif des cages et des plantes, des plantations de la plupart des essences recensées au Gabon... Bref, un vrai travail de titan qui nécessiterait une aide extérieure !

«Pour arriver à finaliser ces nombreux projets, nous souhaiterions vivement être appuyés par les organismes concernés et les opérateurs économiques du pays, afin d’obtenir, par exemple, l’obtention gracieuse d’une arrivée d’eau et d’électricité afin de continuer à faire fonctionner le Zoo-Parc dans de bonnes conditions d’hygiène et de salubrité» affirme Émile Gorayeb. «Nous cherchons aussi un financement pour cloturer le parc et acheter divers matériels de construction et d’entretien, cela dans le but de finaliser les travaux en cours, de concrétiser les projets d’amélioration du site, et surtout pour nous permettre de faire vivre ce Zoo-Parc encore de longues années, tout en conservant la gratuité de l’entrée.»

Dans un site harmonieusement aménagé, les visiteurs pourront, à pied ou en pirogue, redécouvrir leur potentiel sensoriel, à deux pas du centre ville et pourtant loin de tous leurs repères habituels.Au terme de la visite, petits et grands repartiront heureux, avec une meilleure connaissance de la culture et de la richesse du Gabon.

Publié le 10-06-2009 Source : Le Citadin



a nice link: http://zooparc.lepriveonline.com/parcBotanique_content.html

amazing turquoise sea around Port Gentil

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this is paradise

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Courtesy of Bernard Fillon

Beautiful. How this is not up there with Kenya, Tanzania and Botsawana as a tourist destination is incredible. Gabon needs to sort itself out.

Not a national park but the beaches of Port Gentil region

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look at the water quality

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http://72.img.v4.skyrock.net/72b/voyage-au-gabon/pics/2240656391_1.jpg

How this is not one of the top eco-destinations in the world is testament to both incompetence and the effects of oil. Nice photos Matt. The beaches in gabon are almost as nice as East Africa.

Inside la Lopé National Park

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fresh mangoos from trees

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small train station of la lopé

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an eco-guide searching for mandrills

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parachuters

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Mont de Brazza:cheers:

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the transgabonais train

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waiting for train

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true garden of eden

Inside la Lopé National Park



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:gaah: How many trips a day?

To be honnest I didn't know a lot of Gabon but this is AMAZING!
For somebody like me who likes nature this is paradise on earth.
Also nice roads and even a railway.
Where else in black Africa can you find this?
I totaly fall in love, I have to visit one day.

Provinciale du Cinquantenaire : De la consommation interdite à la protection de la torture marine chez les Benga du Cap Estérias :cheers::cheers:




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Écrit par Rodrigue ASSEYI Mercredi, 26 Mai 2010 20:49

Libreville, 26 mai (GABONEWS)- Le Cap Estérias, au nord de Libreville, l’une des escales de la caravane de la Provinciale du cinquantenaire n’offre pas que ses belles plages ouvertes sur l’océan atlantique qui hébergent les îles Corisco et Mbanié, mais aussi, se distingue par l’attachement de la communauté Benga, une des composantes éthiques locales, à la tortue marine, désormais interdite à la consommation.

CONSCIENCE COLLECTIVE CONTRE LA CHASSE SAUVAGE

La protection de l’espèce, la tortue verte, soumise, dans la contrée, à une « chasse sauvage », a conduit le gouvernement à « bannir » la pêche de cette espèce aquatique dont la chaire ,fort appréciée par les Benga notamment, se présente , davantage, sous forme de viande que de poisson.

La tortue, "tartaruca" en lartin, classée dans la catégorie des reptiles , autrement appelée au Cap Estérias ‘’Koudou’’ , bénéficie depuis quelques années de l’entière protection des autorités, après une sévère exploitation .

« Il y a une dizaine d’années, on trouvait des parcs à tortue au Cap. Cinq à dix, vivantes, dans un enclos, attendaient d’être livrées à la consommation. Heureusement, aujourd’hui, les parcs ont complètement disparu », note Norbert Nganga, Directeur général adjoint de l’Ecole Nationale des Eaux et forêts(ENEF), partenaire de l’ONG, WCS et des populations dans la préservation de l’animal.

En clair, « la pêche n’est plus si facile du tout. Les populations sont de plus en plus conscientes de l’intérêt de la protection de la tortue », explique-t-il.

« L’attelage, ENEF- WCS- populations, c’est une conscience collective au départ. Puis, il fallait s’orienter vers une conscience individuelle. La finalité demeure la promotion de la cogestion des tortues marines », développe, M.N. Nganga .

Signal fort. Une tortue, nommée Sidonie, avait été baguée puis mise, officiellement, en mer, il y a plusieurs mois. Munie d’une antenne satellitaire, elle devient repérable et émet des données indispensables dans la traçabilité de sa migration.

Selon les spécialistes, on distingue 5 espèces de tortues, mais l’une d’elle, de couleur verte, arrive au Cap Estérias, selon des périodes précises, pour se « nourrir » après la « ponte » au parc Pongara.

Toujours aux dires des experts, le « Gabon regorge de ressources qui assurent l’alimentation des tortues et se trouve ainsi au centre de cette diversité de sources alimentaires de l’espèce ».

DES SOLUTIONS ALTERNATIVES

Aussi, l’implication de l’ENEF dans le partenariat visant la sauvegarde de la tortue s’impose-t-elle, de l’avis de M.Nganga .

« L’école est un institut de formation qui se situe en amont de tous les programmes mettant en œuvre les politiques. Voilà pourquoi, nous formons, depuis plus d’une cinquantaine d’années, des gens capables de conduire ses politiques là. En ce qui concerne les tortues marines, l’école est donc interpellée dans la mesure où nous fournissons la ressource humaine. Le WCS, quant à lui, nous aide à le faire parce que, c’est d’abord l’affaire du Gabon », argumente-t-il.

Une promenade dans les allées de l’ENEF permet, du reste, de mesurer l’étendue de cette collaboration matérialisée par un bureau aménagé au profit du WCS, une des nombreuses Organisations Non Gouvernementales gabonaises qui œuvrent dans la lutte contre le braconnage de la faune marine.

L’association des populations à la gestion durable des tortues au Cap Estérias, procède, c’est vrai, du souci de les conserver. Pour autant, il importe de souligner que les autochtones ont consommé depuis des lustres la tortue pour des raisons culturelles (mariage en particulier) au moment où, dans la province du Woleu-Ntem (Nord), pour ne citer que cette région du pays, un bœuf était offert, pour le même rituel.

« Dans le nord, où se pratique l’élevage, c’est normal qu’un bœuf soit présenté lorsque vous voulez épouser une femme tandis qu’ici, au Cap, le poisson et la tortue font partie du menu lors des cérémonies festives », éclaire un notable.

L’adhésion des habitants contre le pillage de la ressource incite les autorités à rechercher des solutions alternatives.

L’élevage parait ainsi comme l’une des pistes qui garantirait le maintien d’une « tradition » chez les Benga.

QUELLE PLACE OCCUPE LA TORTUE CHEZ LES BENGA DU CAP ESTERIAS ?

Dans la série consacrée à la Provinciale du Cinquantenaire, où la Culture occupe ,tout autant que les autres thématiques , une place au soleil , la caravane s’engage à ouvrir de nouvelles fenêtres sur la relation entre la consommation de la tortue verte et l’espace Benga .

Il va sans dire qu’un certain nombre de questionnements mérite un prolongement, du moins dans le domaine anthropologique, sinon du point de vue ethno géographique.

Quelle place occupe la tortue dans le milieu Benga (mythe, légende) ? Symbolise-t-elle la sagesse, la procréation et l’endurance ?

Déjà, un chercheur soutient qu’il existe un lien entre la tortue et le rite mougala , pratiqué chez les Kota (nord-est) , Bahumbu (sud-est)...

Le Mougala (apparence de l’animal cité) sort de l’eau, professe –t-il, et , à en croire la légende, ajoute l’universitaire, les Benga, peuple côtier, aurait été transportés, au Cap Estérias, par une tortue.

GN/RA/10

Some new pics

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Lodge in Loanga Park

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one of Gabon´s most majestic waterfalls

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Les chutes de Kongou (plus hautes chutes d'Afrique centrale)

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Gabon, Nyonié,


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beach near national park in Southern Gabon

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an old but restored light house

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Wingombé from above

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Courtesy of Raphaela Lavin

beautiful

Beautiful Gabon!