Hunting in Ngounié Province, Gabon: Laws and Legislation, Seasons and Clubs, Communities for Hunters

Natural Aspects of Gabon and Ngounié Province Ngounié Province, located in south-central Gabon, spans approximately 37,750 km². The region is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes dense tropical forests, savannahs, marshy plains, and mountainous areas. Notably, the Chaillu Massif in the east reaches elevations up to 1,020 meters, while other significant elevations include the Koumounabwali Massif (833 m), Mount Guemonga (580 m), Mount Tandu (380 m), and Mount Igoumbi (820 m). The province is traversed by numerous rivers, including the Ngounié River, contributing to its rich biodiversity and making it a prime location for various hunting activities. Demographic Situation of Ngounié Province As of the 2013 census, Ngounié Province had a population of approximately 100,838 inhabitants. The population comprises various Bantu ethnic groups, including the Punu, Eshira, Tsogo, Massango, Vungu, and others. Hunting is a traditional practice among these communities, serving both subsistence and cultural purposes. While specific data on the number of hunters is not readily available, the reliance on bushmeat for protein and income suggests that a significant portion of the population engages in hunting activities. Hunting Traditions and Aspects of Ngounié Province Hunting methods in Ngounié Province vary and include: Firearms: Primarily 12-gauge shotguns are used for hunting medium to large game. Traps and Snares: Utilized for capturing smaller animals such as rodents and duikers. Nets: Employed in group hunting to capture multiple animals simultaneously. Traditional Weapons: Bows, arrows, and spears are still used, particularly in remote areas. Hunting is conducted both during the day and at night, with nocturnal hunts facilitated by the use of flashlights or torches. Game Species in the Province The province hosts a variety of game species, including: Blue duiker (Philantomba monticola) Red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus) Brush-tailed porcupine (Atherurus africanus) Bay duiker (Cephalophus dorsalis) Water chevrotain (Hyemoschus aquaticus) Various primates and small carnivores These species are commonly hunted for subsistence and local trade. Hunting Seasons in Ngounié Province In Gabon, the official hunting season typically runs from March 16 to September 14. Hunting is prohibited during the breeding season, from September 15 to March 15, to allow wildlife populations to replenish. However, enforcement of these regulations can be challenging, and hunting may occur outside the designated seasons. Hunting Organizations of the Region While there are no widely known hunting clubs specific to Ngounié Province, community-based management initiatives are emerging in Gabon. These efforts aim to establish officially recognized community forests managed by hunter associations, promoting sustainable hunting practices and conservation awareness. Hunting Legislation of Ngounié Province Gabonese law regulates hunting through the Forest Code (Law No. 16/01), which includes: Prohibition of night hunting and the use of cable snares. Ban on hunting during the closed season (September 15 to March 15). Protection of certain species, such as the red river hog, which is fully protected despite its prevalence in bushmeat markets. Enforcement challenges persist, with a significant portion of hunting occurring illegally due to economic and subsistence pressures. Cultural Traditions of Gabon Hunting holds cultural significance in Ngounié Province, with traditional practices passed down through generations. Communal hunts and the use of traditional weapons are part of the region's heritage. These practices are intertwined with social structures and rituals, reflecting the deep-rooted connection between communities and the natural environment. Interesting Facts about Place Ngounié Province is named after the Ngounié River, which traverses the region and contributes to its rich biodiversity. The province's diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests, and rivers, provide habitats for a wide range of wildlife species, making it a significant area for both hunting and conservation efforts.