Projects

Koyli-Alpha Reserve

Koyli-Alpha is a Sahelian grassland preserve where ACI successfully reintroduced 20 African spurred tortoises (Centrochelys sulcata) in 2017, supported by FAO/ACD and the Turtle Conservation Fund. A second group of 38 tortoises is being prepared for release with support from the Monaco Aquarium.

Sulcata Preserve Project (SSP)

Since 2022, ACI has identified Senegal’s last wild population of Centrochelys sulcata. The project now focuses on securing habitat through land ownership, supported by European zoos in Ostrava (Czech Republic) and Wroclaw (Poland).

Tocc-Tocc Reserve

Tocc-Tocc is a community-managed wetland preserve protecting the habitat of Adanson’s mud turtle (Pelusios adansonii) and other wetland wildlife, including migratory birds, crocodiles, and the critically endangered African manatee. ACI initiated this protected area in 2002, now officially recognized in Senegal’s national park system.

Kinixys Conservation Initiative (CCI)

Focused on Kinixys homeana, the most endangered hinge-back tortoise species. Operating in Côte d’Ivoire, the project includes population assessments, threat analysis, translocations, ranger and student training, and advocacy for CITES Appendix I listing.

Senegal Seagrasses Ecosystem Conservation Initiative (SSECI)

SSECI was launched in 2024 to protect vital seagrass habitats that support migratory green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas). Partners include MCAF/NEAq (Boston, USA) and Joal Fadiouth Marine Protected Area.

National Sea Turtle Awareness Days (JNTM)

Initiated in 2021 by ACI and partners, this has become Senegal’s largest annual educational event focused on sea turtle conservation.

African Scholarship Program (ASP)

The African Scholarship Program is a capacity-building initiative launched in 2022 to train African students and park staff in turtle conservation. The program covers theory, field techniques, fundraising, and scientific writing.