Access - Djibouti Site Visit

Exclusive Site Visit:

This site currently hosts three projects

• Wildlife Rescue & Animal Conservation in Djibouti with Decan

• Reforestation and Mangrove Restoration in Djibouti with Decan

• From Invasive Tree Species to Biochar in Djibouti with Decan

Please message Sandeep Krishnappa on KlimateNet App.

Introduction

Led by Bertrand Lafrance, a KlimateNet member and President of DECAN Djibouti, this carbon removal initiative is based in the Douda Nature Reserve—a 680-hectare animal refuge managed by DECAN. The project focuses on restoring and protecting biodiverse ecosystems, from acacia to mangrove forests.

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These forests are natural carbon sinks that also combat erosion and soil degradation—vital tools in the fight against climate change. By preserving biodiversity, the project supports food security for vulnerable communities most at risk from increasing desertification. The area is also home to sand dunes, beaches, and over 150 species of birds, along with diverse mammals, reptiles, and marine life.

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Decan operates a wildlife refuge and rehabilitation center, housing over 9 species rescued from trafficking, injury, or habitat loss.

• Animals include cheetahs, lions, ostriches, turtles, donkeys, caracals, squirrels, antelopes, kudus, zebras, porcupines, reptiles, and amphibians.

• The refuge is not a zoo but a natural reserve with its own ecosystem; animals are rehabilitated and released when possible.

Project Objective

• Combat overgrazing

• Control the spread of invasive species (notably Prosopis juliflora)

• Prevent wild harvesting (especially sand extraction)

• Promote reforestation and mangrove restoration through nurseries and eco-tourism

• Located near Djibouti's capital, this project is transforming the reserve into a clean, accessible, and educational natural space.

• Scale up biochar/charcoal production with better packaging and machinery.

• Turn Prosopis from a threat into an economic and ecological asset.

Project Needs

• Expand the refuge area and improve facilities for both animals and visitors.

• Attract more visitors and volunteers to support operations by increasing educational outreach and visitor engagement.

• Secure sustainable funding sources and develop ecotourism and biochar sales as revenue streams.

• Strengthen protection in Jallelo National Reserve and other key habitats.

What the site offers KlimateNet Members

• Access the project Trust Circle

• Internships at DECAN’s wildlife shelter in Djibouti

• Research collaborations in forest and mangrove ecosystem restoration

• Partner with East African experts to refine techniques.

• Opportunity to develop smaller packaging and clearer branding to distinguish Prosopis charcoal from traditional acacia charcoal.

• Accept assistance in funding to improve production technology and business operations.

• Joint exploration and use of Prosopis fruit as animal feed but this requires further research and equipment to process seeds for livestock health.