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About Kumasi Zoological Gardens |
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History
Kumasi Zoological Gardens (Kumasi Zoo) was opened as a result of a decision
taken in July 1951 by the Asanteman Council to preserve Ashanti culture, foster
social research and publish journal notes on Ashanti customs and other matters
of general interest.
The Zoo was officially opened in 1957 with the purpose of displaying indigenous
wild animals of Ghana in captivity (including free roaming Pea-fowls) with the
view to demonstrating the linkage between wildlife and culture and thereby
emphasising the need for wildlife conservation.
The Zoo was managed at different times by the then Kumasi Municipal Council and
the Forestry Department and since 1974 managed by the Wildlife Division of the
Forestry Commission
(formerly Department of Game and Wildlife).
Overall Functions of Wildlife Division
Protect, manage and develop wildlife resources in the national interest and
regulate the harvesting of wildlife resources. Vet the export of wildlife
products, conduct pre-shipment inspection, examination of wildlife products.
Develop and promote the economic potential of wildlife through eco-tourism and
sustainable exploitation of wild plants and animals, including their by-products.
Develop the wildlife management capacity at the national, district and community
levels including stakeholder participation of the effective management of
wildlife within and outside the protected areas. Promote public awareness,
understanding and support for wildlife conservation, facilitate continuous
improvement in wildlife management through research.
Functions of Kumasi Zoo
The functions of the Zoo are to:
1) Display local fauna in captivity to satisfy the curiosity of the viewing
public.
2) Conduct Conservation Education with the aim of educating the public about
wild animals especially the rare and disappearing (endangered) ones.
3) Conduct scientific research into various aspects of wildlife biology, ecology
etc.
4) Engage in the breeding of endangered species.
5) Offer a sanctuary for orphaned animals.
6) Generate revenue.
7) Offer a place for relaxation and recreation for the leisure time visitor.
Location
The Kumasi Zoo occupies a prime site in the centre of Kumasi, providing one of
the few green urban areas in Kumasi for both local citizens and visitors. It is
situated in Kejetia, a suburb of the central business area of the Kumasi
Metropolitan Area and is located between 6° 34’ N - 6° 46’ N and 1°30’ W - 1°44’
W of Ghana.
Area
It occupies an area of about 11 ha and is completely walled.
Landscape
Forest and marshland with centrally flowing stream of high cultural significance
to the people of Ashanti.
Zoological Collection
Mainly local fauna comprising of the following:
Carnivores (Big & Small Cats) - 6 Species
Primates - 9 Species
Rodents - 5 Species
Reptiles - 13 Species
Ungulates - 6 Species
Birds - 18 Species
Source: Website of
Ghana districts
(2009)
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