Protecting Cheetahs, Empowering Communities: A Holistic Approach to Conservation in Somaliland

Under the expert supervision of Dr. Laurie Marker CCF is conducting innovative ecological research in Somaliland, as part of a broader effort to understand and protect cheetah populations across the Horn of Africa. This work combines technology with community insights to address the biggest threat to cheetahs in the region—the illegal wildlife and pet trade, which continues to decimate wild populations.

Recently, four cheetah cubs were confiscated from this illicit trade approximately 60 kilometers from the capital city of Hargeisa. With the swift collaboration of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC), the cubs were safely transferred to CCF for care. The urgent triage process began immediately on-site, where they received subcutaneous fluids and high-density nutrition delivered from the back of our truck. Once stabilized they were put on the path to recovery in quarantine at the Cheetah Rescue and Conservation Centre (CRCC) in Geed-Deeble.

Ecological research in Somaliland is advancing rapidly, providing essential insights into cheetah distribution and habitat dynamics. In November 2024, a multidisciplinary team launched a pioneering field expedition as part of a groundbreaking PhD study at the Namibia University of Science and Technology. This research focuses on mapping the status, range, and distribution of cheetahs across Somaliland, the Somali Regional State (SRS) of Ethiopia, and Puntland.

Following approval from the MoECC in January 2025, the team deployed 72 camera traps across the rugged, mountainous terrain of the Awdal region. Conducted in collaboration with regional coordinators and a Special Protection Unit from the Somaliland Police Force, these surveys provide greater insight into the cheetah’s habitat and help us understand its current population.

Community engagement is central to this work. Researchers have partnered with local Somali nomads, who add critical context to ecological data. This collaboration not only enhances our research it builds important relationships to help our conservation strategies succeed.

Construction of the new Education Centre is making significant progress, with multiple spaces now fully enclosed as outer walls and roofs take shape. Once completed, the facility will serve as a hub for training and awareness programs, providing environmental education and promoting sustainable livelihood development. By equipping local communities with essential knowledge and skills, the Centre will play a vital role in fostering conservation awareness and creating opportunities that reduce human-wildlife conflict.

These efforts, rescuing cheetahs, advancing ecological research, and fostering community education, are all essential in combating the illegal wildlife and pet trade. By addressing both the ecological and human dimensions of conservation, we are working to safeguard cheetah populations while ensuring that the needs of local communities are met, securing a sustainable future for both people and wildlife.

From Vision to Action: Advancing Cheetah Conservation After the Global Cheetah Summit

The 2024 Global Cheetah Summit in Addis Ababa laid the foundation for a bold, strategic vision for cheetah conservation. Experts such as Dr. Bogdan Cristescu and Mr. Abdinasir Hussein highlighted innovative approaches to mitgating the illegal wildlife/pet trade and overcoming the challenges of studying these elusive cats.

By combining robust field research, community engagement, and cutting-edge technology, the work in Somaliland is setting a new standard for conservation in the region, directly addressing the threats posed by the illegal wildlife trade while fostering sustainable solutions for both people and wildlife.