In the Manovo-Gounda Saint Floris animal reserve, a woman stands out among the eco-guards responsible for protecting the fauna and flora. Her name is Bertille, a daring young woman of 20 years old. While this profession is often dominated by men, she fights daily for the preservation of endangered animal species.
Within this 17,400 km2 reserve, Bertille participates in patrols, tracks down poachers and ensures the protection of the animals which are gradually finding their place in the park. Every day, she leaves her basic shelter, a hut made of wood and straw, to join her comrades in arms and prepare for her mission.
Measuring only 1m60, with short hair and dressed in camouflage clothing, Bertille is nicknamed “Bamara”, the lioness. She carries on her shoulders a 30 kg bag containing everything necessary for her expedition: tent, mat, torch, compass, bottles of water and canned goods. She starts her day with physical exercises, then tackles household chores before heading straight to work. The ecoguard teams take turns on foot patrols throughout the park for a week, a difficult task but one that does not frighten him.
“Bamara” has devoted itself entirely for two years to the protection of this natural heritage. She is aware of the importance of the animal species present in the park for the development of the country through tourism. “We are blessed with unique animals in the world, which could be a pillar for the development of our country through tourism,” she explains.
Ludovic, another eco-guard, admires Bertille’s bravery. He emphasizes that the job of ecoguard is difficult and that few women are motivated to do it. The training they followed is quasi-military in order to protect their lives and that of the animals. They regularly face armed poachers, but Bertille always defends herself with courage. She is a true warrior.
The young woman remembers with emotion her brother, also passionate about preserving nature, who was tragically killed by armed men a few years ago. To honor his memory, Bertille is determined to continue the fight until the end. She is convinced that her brother would be proud of her, wherever he was.
While the Manovo-Gounda Saint Floris Park is classified as a UNESCO world heritage site in danger, Bertille and his comrades in arms work tirelessly to save this natural jewel. Their mission is to protect endangered animal species and fight against poaching, a daily battle on which the future of the park depends. Thanks to people like Bertille, there is still hope for the preservation of the fauna and flora of this unique place.