Agouti stew - a way to reduce pressure on the forest

Agoutis (Thryonomys swinderianus: 'grasscutter' or 'great cane rat') are rodents the size of a rabbit. And similar to some people's taste for rabbit meat, agouti is a delicacy in Côte d'Ivoire.

One of the favourite targets of bushmeat hunters, agoutis can also be raised in captivity relatively easily. Agouti farming is therefore a good way to reduce both the pressure on wild populations and poachers' damaging incursions into the forest.

Training people to train people in raising agoutis
Not surprisingly, WWF is actively supporting agouti farming in the vicinity of Taï National Park. The aim is to establish a group of model agouti farmers who then could train other farmers and help them establish their own facilities.

Pierre Kemonsiehi is trying to become one of these pilot farmers. However, his operations are not working as well as he would like. He tells us that he is close to asking for assistance from WWF.

WWF helping out but avoiding dependence
"WWF can offer training, and help people to develop their projects and install their facilities. But after that we let them take the initiative, and we can't promise anything," says Kalé Gbegbe, WWF project leader in Taï.

"Some people are promising too many things to the local populations. Then they cannot keep their promises, and this does not help us," he adds. "Misled locals then turn to us, but we try to discourage those who don't make an effort to solve their problems and instead look immediately for some kind of monetary assistance."

High esteem means our man is in high demand
Kalé Gbegbe is well known in the surroundings of Taï National Park. He used to be a manager at the Water and Forest Department which, together with his current involvement in WWF's mission, has earned him a good reputation. But the high esteem in which he is held also means that he is constantly in high demand.

Agouti farming is easy, if done properly
Agouti farming requires some patience and discipline. It is a good activity for those who have time but little money. "Properly done, it can generate good revenues in a reasonably short time," confirms Kalé Gbegbe. "But it is essential to pay special attention to the feeding and hygiene of the animals, to watch over them almost permanently. Some farmers are not careful enough and that is why they face problems."

One solution proposed by Kalé is for successful farmers to visit those having difficulties. In the WWF project leader's mind, these models would generate both stimulation and competitiveness...