SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION PROJECT

The Sea Turtle Conservation Project was launched in the summer of 2023 in cooperation with the local organization GEPADG in Gunjur. The project focuses on protecting sea turtles and their nesting sites by building a safe hatchery, improving survival rates of hatchlings, and strengthening community-based environmental protection.

Location

Gunjur, The Gambia

Duration

The project began in summer 2023 and is ongoing.

Objective

To protect sea turtles and their natural habitat through the construction of a safe hatchery, improved protection of nesting sites, environmental education, and close cooperation with the local community and GEPADG.

Beneficiaries

Sea turtles, the local organization GEPADG (Gunjur Environmental Protection and Development Group), and the local community of Gunjur.

Activities

Construction and maintenance of a sea turtle hatchery, protection of nesting sites, coastal clean-ups, support of the Gunjur Turtle Birth Festival, environmental education programs, volunteer engagement, and support for community-based accommodation initiatives.

Impact

  • Increased survival rates of sea turtle hatchlings
  • Protection of coastal biodiversity
  • Additional sustainable income opportunities for local residents
  • Increased environmental awareness and youth education

Our Journey

PHASE I – CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW HATCHERY
TARGET: Build the foundation and structure of a new, safe turtle hatchery
STATUS: Completed (October 2023)

Upon arrival in Gunjur, it became clear that the old hatchery was in poor condition — damaged nets, weak predator protection, and high hatchling mortality. Together with local residents, volunteers began preparing the construction of a new hatchery.

Thanks to donations and volunteer contributions, materials were purchased, and bricks were handmade by locals and volunteers, strengthening community ownership of the project. Initial construction works, fencing, and site marking followed.

At the same time, awareness activities were organized for residents and fishermen on the importance of protecting nesting sites, and volunteers were trained to monitor beaches and safely transfer eggs to the new hatchery.

PHASE II – EXPANSION, EDUCATION, AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
TARGET: Further develop the hatchery, strengthen nest protection, and deepen cooperation with GEPADG and the local community
STATUS: Ongoing 

The project continues with maintenance and improvement of the hatchery, monitoring and recording hatchlings, beach clean-ups, and nest protection. Educational programs for schoolchildren and youth are conducted to raise awareness about marine conservation.

The team also supports the Gunjur Turtle Birth Festival, which connects environmental protection with community life, and collaborates with local families to develop accommodation programs that provide additional income through hosting volunteers and visitors.

Fundraising continues to support the purchase of additional equipment, protective nets, educational materials, and predator-proof barriers.

IMPACT

Although the project is still ongoing, results are already visible. The hatchery in Gunjur now provides a safe refuge for hundreds of turtle eggs each season and has become a center of cooperation between local residents, volunteers, and environmental activists.

The community of Gunjur has gained a new source of pride, education, and sustainable development, encouraging young people to see environmental protection as part of their future.

How You Can Get Involved

  • Through donations to support hatchery maintenance, protective equipment, and environmental education
  • By volunteering with GEPADG, helping with beach patrols, hatchling monitoring, and coastal clean-ups
  • By supporting community accommodation programs, providing sustainable income for local families hosting volunteers
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Donation Details

Account Name: VOLUNTEER TRAILS – THE GAMBIA
Account Number (GMD): 6240037610
Account Number (EUR): 6240037611
Swift Code: ECOCGMGMXXX
Beneficiary Bank: Ecobank Gambia Ltd.
Beneficiary Bank Address: 42 Kairaba Avenue, Serekunda – The Gambia.