“What makes it so special?” Many in Zambia have asked this question in response to the myths, fears, and strict legal protections for the endangered and highly-trafficked pangolin. The importance of protecting these remarkable little creatures and the lack of general understanding on pangolin conservation has inspired a groundbreaking response. The launch of Zambia’s first-ever Pangolin Campaign in Solwezi also marked a powerful example of co-creation in action. A coming together of science, culture, and community.
WCP Zambia leads the project in partnership with the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW), but it wasn’t designed in isolation. Instead, it took shape through dialogue with traditional leaders, healers, and local communities. Every step is rooted in cultural understanding and shared responsibility.
The campaign stems from a national study by WCP Zambia, Copperbelt University, and WILDCRU (University of Oxford). The study identified belief-based use as a key driver of the illegal pangolin trade, and also highlighted Solwezi as a key area for intervention due to the amount of pangolin activities. WCP and DNPW acknowledge the vital role the community has in shaping beliefs and behaviour, ensuring that the community is at the heart of the solution. The team engaged with healers and community leaders to design messages together and to select communication channels that resonate with local values, traditions, and lived experiences.
Cultural dances during the protect the pangolins campaign launch
(Credit: WCP Zambia)
At the launch on 1st November 2025, WCP partners and stakeholders celebrated this collaborative effort. The Solwezi District Commissioner, Mr Tredson Mulofwa, lauded the initiative’s inclusive approach and emphasised the importance of collective responsibility.
“I want to commend WCP Zambia and DNPW for their inclusive, holistic approach, one that brings everyone to the table, from policymakers to community members. I call upon all residents of Solwezi to take ownership of this campaign. Let us speak out against illegal trade, report suspicious activities, and protect our pangolins not only for ourselves, but for future generations.”
His remarks captured the effort of co-creation that underpins the campaign. It reflects the idea that protecting wildlife isn’t one group’s job, but a shared effort, involving everyone from the government to local communities.
In the same spirit, Mr. Rodick Kapokola, the Solwezi Area Warden for DNPW, underscored the department’s commitment to safeguarding Zambia’s wildlife. He also pointed out the need for citizen participation.
“As DNPW, we reaffirm our commitment to continue protecting Zambia’s pangolins and all our wildlife. But we cannot do it alone. We call upon every citizen, traditional leader, and youth to be an ambassador for conservation. Report illegal activities. Share accurate information. And take pride in protecting a species that is both rare and uniquely ours.”
The inclusion of traditional voices has been central to the campaign’s development. Traditional leaders and healers will use community plays, radio programmes, and public talks to challenge harmful myths, share accurate information, and promote pangolin conservation through storytelling and cultural wisdom.
Community members reaction during the play at the project's launch
(Credit: WCP Zambia)
Engaging traditional healers, often viewed as unlikely stakeholders, has been a standout feature of the co-design process. Although they are sometimes seen as discreet or “hidden” figures, healers play a trusted role in providing health care, spiritual guidance, and social support. In some contexts, pangolin products have been used in traditional medicine or rituals. Because of their strong community influence, pangolin users themselves have identified traditional healers as key partners for interventions to promote alternatives and reduce demand. Representing the Traditional Health Practitioners Association of Zambia (THPAZ), Dr. Amos Shipuka highlighted the vital role that traditional healers can play as champions of wildlife conservation in Zambia. He described this initiative as the first of many spaces where traditional healers should have a seat at the table to help dispel harmful myths linked to traditional healing practices.
“This animal harms no one, yet so many beliefs and misconceptions continue to threaten its existence,” Dr. Shipuka said.“I am glad to be here today because through this co-creation process, I have learned more about the pangolin. I encourage my fellow doctors to step forward whenever such a noble cause presents itself, and I know that this is the first of many.”
Traditional Leaders, traditional healers and government officials attending the Protect the Pangolins Campaign Launch
(Credit: WCP Zambia)
The comical play is set in a rural village where chiefs handle disputes because formal courts are far away. A respected elder reports that a troublesome resident has been boasting about finding a pangolin and plans to leave the village for a “better life.” The play ends with the chief debunking pangolin myths, warning about penalties for possession, and urging people to report suspicious activity.
Local traditional leaders will reinforce the key messages after every performance. Group leader Sendwe Benson spoke at the launch of the campaign on behalf of the Kapijimpanga Royal Establishment that oversees the district in which the campaign was launched. He emphasised the importance of respecting pangolins and protecting them within their natural environment.
“Pangolins must be left alone. If you see one under suspicious circumstances, report it immediately to DNPW or the nearest government office. Removing a pangolin from its natural environment is illegal and can result in up to five years in prison. The illegal pangolin trade harms families and communities, and it undermines cultural values.”
His statement serves as a powerful reminder that protecting pangolins is not only an environmental concern but also a moral and cultural responsibility.
The Solwezi launch marks the beginning of a nationwide movement. By merging conservation science with community-driven solutions, WCP and its partners are setting a new standard for wildlife protection in Zambia. One where every story, belief, and tradition has a role to play in shaping a sustainable future for both people and pangolins.
