Target: Joseph Ngute, Prime Minister of Cameroon
Goal: Praise decision to stop logging in precious natural reserve.
The government of Cameroon has announced that it will cancel plans to begin logging in Ebo Forest, a region which is home to countless species of rare and un-studied animals and a precious source of food for local groups. The decision has come in response to widespread condemnation of the project by scientists, environmentalists, and those signed petitions like this one.
President Paul Biya’s government had argued that logging would benefit locals by creating job opportunities and bringing in wealth. However, critics pointed out that, apart from the destruction this would cause to wildlife, logging in other parts of the country hasn’t benefited locals there.
The future of Ebo Forest is still far from certain, but the suspension of these harmful activities are nonetheless welcome and encouraging. Sign the letter below to thank Prime Minister Ngute for cancelling this senseless project.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Prime Minister Ngute,
Logging in Ebo Forest was widely criticized for the harm it would do to Cameroonian wildlife and for the dubious benefits it would bring to local residents. Ebo, and other forests like it, is an irreplaceable natural wonder that is home to fascinating and diverse wildlife which have yet to be understood. The cancellation of logging will help them survive in comfort and security, while granting scientists a chance to study and understand them.
Thank you for your wise decision to cancel logging in Ebo. I look forward to long-term conservation efforts succeeding in this precious reserve with your help.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Olivier Lejade
