USFWS Mentor Programs Boost African Conservation Leadership

Story from Anne Ntongho, CCNet Africa co-leader 

During a forum in Sierra Leone in February, stakeholders discussed the findings of an evaluation of five U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service MENTOR Programs implemented across Africa over the last decade. The evaluation used the Consrvation Standards to check the relevance, design, theory of change, effectiveness, impact, sustainability, and leadership aspects of five programs. The three-day bilingual meeting provided an opportunity to validate the findings and synthesize lessons that can be used to guide the MENTOR program and other similar initiatives. The forum also created a unique opportunity for fellows and other persons involved with the MENTOR program to share experiences, network, and focus on African conservation leadership.