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An assessment team from the National Protected Areas Authority (NPAA) on Monday visited the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary to determine the extent of encroachment within the park, following a directive from President Brig. (Rtd.) Dr Julius Maada Bio.
The team, led by NPAA Communications Manager Thomas Lamin, included members of the Authority’s Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Unit and the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Department. The multidisciplinary mission focused on identifying and mapping structures and activities within the sanctuary’s boundaries that may be in violation of protected-area regulations.
The assessment follows the President’s weekend visit to Tacugama, during which he ordered the demolition of any structures found within the sanctuary. The directive has accelerated efforts by authorities to document encroachments and prepare for possible enforcement actions.
Head of Tacugama Sanctuary, Ballah Amarasankara, described the exercise as a critical step toward protecting the sanctuary’s wildlife and natural habitat. He emphasised the importance of accurate mapping and continuous monitoring to guide enforcement measures and ensure that any interventions are carried out transparently and in accordance with conservation and legal standards.
Using GIS technology, the NPAA team is expected to produce a comprehensive map of suspected encroachments, alongside monitoring data that will inform subsequent decisions. However, officials noted that no specific timeline has been set for demolitions or enforcement, as authorities intend to first verify boundary limits and engage relevant stakeholders.
Tacugama, widely recognised for its chimpanzee rehabilitation and conservation efforts, has long faced pressure from expanding human settlements, farming activities, and other developments along its perimeter. Conservation experts warn that such encroachment risks fragmenting habitats and endangering the well-being of chimpanzees and other wildlife.
Authorities say future actions will balance enforcement with community engagement, aimed at reducing ongoing pressure on the sanctuary. The NPAA, in collaboration with Tacugama management, is expected to release further findings from the assessment in the coming days.
