Ep25: Protecting Gorillas Through Human Health with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka

When a scabies outbreak in a gorilla population in Uganda was attributed to the hygiene habits of nearby local communities, Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka knew that she would have to find creative ways to ensure that these magnificent animals and surrounding communities can co-exist. As a response, she created the NGO, Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH), which employs a multidisciplinary approach to prevent and control disease transmission between closely genetically related species such as people and gorillas, and cattle and buffalo. CTPH also improves livelihoods by supporting local communities in reducing their dependence on fragile habitats to meet their basic needs.Her methods have garnered worldwide attention. She has received numerous awards, including the Whitley Gold Award for outstanding leadership in grassroots nature conservation and the Jane Goodall Institute Award for Conservation. In September 2020, she became the first African to win the Aldo Leopold Award from the American Society of Mammologists for outstanding contributions to the conservation of mammals and their habitats. With zoonotic diseases projected to become more prevalent, her work is becoming increasingly relevant to each and every one of us. For ideas on how YOU can help protect gorillas from wherever you are, be sure to check out this episode's show notes at forcesfornature.com!Hit me up on Instagram and Facebook (Page / Private Group) and let me know what eco-actions you have been taking. Adopting just one habit can be a game-changer because imagine if a billion people also adopted that!What difference for the world are you going to make today?Background music by Fearless Motivation Instrumentals: Meaning of LifeWant a free guide to help you become a force for nature? Get it HERE!If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review it! This helps to boost its visibility. Hit me up on Instagram and Facebook and let me know what actions you have been taking. Adopting just one habit can be a game-changer because imagine if a billion people also adopted that! What difference for the world are you going to make today?