Massif de l’Ennedi : paysage naturel et culturel
Country
Chad
Inscribed in
2016
Criteria
(iii)
(vii)
(ix)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "significant concern" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
Situé dans le nord-est du pays, le massif de l'Ennedi est formé de grès. Avec le temps, l'érosion de l'eau et du vent a sculpté ce plateau, découpant des canyons et des vallées offrant des paysages spectaculaires composés de falaises, d'arches naturelles et de pitons rocheux. Dans les plus grands canyons, les eaux permanentes jouent un rôle capital dans l’écosystème du massif, et permettant la pérennité de la faune, de la flore et des êtres humains. Sur les surfaces rocheuses des grottes, des canyons et des abris, des milliers d'images ont été peintes et gravées, constituant l'une des plus grandes collections d'art rupestre du Sahara. © UNESCO
Summary
2025 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
11 oct 2025
Significant concern
Current state and trend of VALUES
High Concern
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
Desert landscape of outstanding aesthetic value
Criterion
(vii)
The Ennedi Massif is one of the six major mountain ranges of the Sahara, the largest desert in the world. The morphological and colour contrasts between this relief and the surrounding desert plains confer an outstanding aesthetic value. The verdant wetlands of the gueltas contrast with the ochre and red rocks of the relief. Sheltering the last crocodiles of the region, the Guelta d’Archei is an exceptional site encased in imposing walls of red sandstone (World Heritage Committee, 2017).
Conditions enabling survival of relict species far from their current distribution
Criterion
(ix)
The relief of the Ennedi Massif allows the local coexistence of hyper-arid to semi-arid zones. It generates wetter conditions than in the surrounding desert plains, which enabled the animal and plant species to survive in the massif after the installation of the current arid Saharan climate 4,300 years ago. These relict species are far removed from their current distribution ranges in the subtropical and tropical zones. An estimated population of 10 crocodiles is also present in the Guelta d’Archei, where water is present all year round (de Smet, 1998; Brito et al., 2011). This relict species found itself isolated a few thousand years ago with the draining of the hydrographic network linking the Ennedi to the neighbouring regions. The massif shelters Saharan, Sahelian, subtropical, and relict species and constitutes an island of exceptional biodiversity in a desert (World Heritage Committee, 2017; Gillet, 1968; Brundu & Camarda, 2013).
Assessment information
The Ennedi Massif faces a range of current threats, with varying levels of severity and availability of information. The most significant threats include off-road driving, which is widespread and impacts vegetation and landscape integrity, and poaching, which has led to local extinctions of key species like Oryx, Addax, and Dama Gazelle, though law enforcement efforts are being strengthened. Livestock grazing is a localized threat, concentrated around permanent water sources, but has not yet reached critical levels. Firewood collection by local communities is currently a low threat but could escalate with population growth and increased tourism. Waste management is a concern due to the slow decomposition of waste in the desert environment, though it is currently limited. Inbreeding poses a severe threat to the relic crocodile population, compounded by human disturbance and food scarcity. Overall, while some threats are being managed, others, particularly those related to human activity and biodiversity loss, require continued attention and mitigation efforts.
Logging, Harvesting & Controlling Trees
(Firewood collection)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
Firewood collection by local communities does not represent a high threat currently, but could become an issue as a result of growing population and visitor numbers (IUCN, 2016). In 2020, the State Party reported the implementation of a ban on cutting of green wood (State Party of Chad, 2020).
Roads, Trails & Railroads
(Off-road driving)
Inside site
, Scattered(5-15%)
Outside site
Off-road driving is common in the property and it impacts on vegetation and intactness of the landscape are visible. There is a need to establish a more rigorous system to control these activities (IUCN, 2016).
Unknown Threats
(Threat to viability of crocodile population)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Inbreeding represents a severe threat to the crocodile population, possibly also human disturbance and the lack of sufficient food (IUCN Consultation, 2020).
Terrestrial Animal Farming, Ranching & Herding
(Livestock Farming / Grazing)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Pastoralism is the basis of the local economy. Livestock grazing is concentrated in areas with permanent water access and therefore may result in significant, though localized impacts. However, overall pressure from grazing has not yet reached a critical stage, and desertification has been observed during the evaluation mission even in the most heavily used areas (IUCN, 2016). Today, the Ennedi remains a crucial resource for semi-nomadic groups in search of water and pasture. The Ennedi Nature and Cultural Reserve, with more than 30,000 people depending on its natural resources, is a typical example of socio-ecological systems. Camel and small ruminant (and to a lesser extent cattle) farming in and around the Ennedi Massif by the Goranes and Zaghawa communities is an integral aspect of this socio-ecological system. It is also the basis for the livelihoods of a large majority of the population and represents the main activity related to the exploitation of natural resources in the reserve (African Parks, 2023).
Hunting, Collecting & Controlling Terrestrial Animals
(Hunting and trapping)
Other targeted species names
Oryx, Addax, Dama Gazelle, Ostrich and Lion
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Poaching has decimated populations of some species in the site and is reported to have led to local extinctions of several key species, such as Oryx, Addax, Dama Gazelle, Ostrich, and Lion. There are still viable populations of some species, but these continue to be threatened (IUCN, 2016).
No poaching data are currently available; however, law enforcement is being strengthened since the site came under the management of the African Parks Network in 2018 (African Parks, 2019 and 2020), which should help to address poaching issues going forward. In 2020, the State Party also reported the implementation of a ban on hunting (State Party of Chad, 2020). Despite intense poaching in recent decades, which has wiped out most of the wild species, biodiversity is still present in this unique and remarkable landscape (State Party of Chad, 2024).
No poaching data are currently available; however, law enforcement is being strengthened since the site came under the management of the African Parks Network in 2018 (African Parks, 2019 and 2020), which should help to address poaching issues going forward. In 2020, the State Party also reported the implementation of a ban on hunting (State Party of Chad, 2020). Despite intense poaching in recent decades, which has wiped out most of the wild species, biodiversity is still present in this unique and remarkable landscape (State Party of Chad, 2024).
Garbage & Solid Waste
(Solid Waste)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Decomposition of waste is very slow in a desert environment and waste management is therefore an important issue. However, the problem of littering currently is still limited (IUCN, 2016), but it might become an issue with the expected increase in visitor numbers.
Unknown Threats
(Threat to viability of crocodile population)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Outside site
Inbreeding represents a severe threat to the crocodile population, possibly also human disturbance and the lack of sufficient food (IUCN Consultation, 2020). In 2024, the World Heritage Committee requested the State Party to present more details on the status of biodiversity, including flagship species such as the relic crocodile population, including its genetic viability (UNESCO, 2024).
The Ennedi Massif faces several potential threats that could impact its natural and cultural values in the future. Oil and gas exploration in areas adjacent to the site poses a high threat, as it could affect the site's integrity and values, despite the exclusion of oil concessions from the inscribed boundaries. Increasing tourism, while currently limited due to the site's remoteness and instability in the region, is expected to grow and could lead to environmental degradation if not carefully managed. Climate change is another significant concern, with rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and desertification threatening the site's iconic sandstone formations and rock art. Additionally, flooding events, such as those experienced during the 2024 rainy season, could have a substantial impact on the site's aesthetic and ecological values.
Oil & Gas exploration/development
(Oil exploration and exploitation)
Outside site
The boundaries of the original nomination were modified by the State Party when the nomination was already being evaluated. The reduction in the area proposed for inscription was triggered by the fact that an oil concession was granted in the area which was removed from the boundaries. While this means that no oil concessions overlap with the boundaries of the site as inscribed, the area excised from the original nomination contains significant attributes important for supporting the Outstanding Universal Value of the site. Future oil operations in the vicinity of the site may have impacts on the site's integrity and values (IUCN, 2016).
Recreational Activities
(Increasing tourism)
Inside site
, Scattered(5-15%)
Outside site
The area is very remote and tourism remains limited. However, it is expected that tourism activities will increase in the future and this will require careful management (IUCN, 2016). In 2019, APN described the Ennedi Massif as renowned for being a prime destination for Saharan tourism and identifies the tourism potential as being "immense", to provide valuable income to the reserve and help support local communities (African Parks, 2019), and any increased tourism will require careful management. However, the impacts of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic on visitation numbers are yet to be evaluated.
Severe Weather Events
(Flooding and heavy rainfall)
Inside site
, Throughout(>50%)
Outside site
The Sahel region experienced record rainfall during the 2024 rainy season. In Chad, flooding as a result of these heavy rains affected two properties inscribed on the World Heritage List, including the Ennedi Massif. These heavy rains would have had a potential significant impact on the aesthetic value of the property. The State Party submitted a request for international assistance to UNESCO's World Heritage Fund to assess the damage caused to the OUV of the property, as well as to study the consequences of the flooding on the micro-environment and the urgent needs on the ground (State Party, 2024). The report on this assessment is not yet available.
Involvement of stakeholders and rightsholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, in decision-making processes
At the time of inscription, the nomination dossier stated that the traditional management by the indigenous people has until now safeguarded the integrity of the proposed property (State Party of Chad, 2015); however, such traditional management should be complemented by additional professional management to be able to respond to the challenges facing the site. Since the inscription of the property, local communities' participation in the property's management has been visible and real. The management units for the property and the tourist sites are mainly comprised of the local population, including the local traditional authorities. 40 local people, including 3 women, were recruited and trained in 2020 to form a team of ecoguards. The Massif site manager is also a native of Ennedi, where the property is located. The involvement of the local population in the management of the property is effective and is bearing fruit, as many of the measures necessary for the proper functioning of the management and protection, such as the fight against poaching, the surveillance of sites by guards and the non-use of green wood, are based on the genuine involvement and exchange of information between the Local Management Committee of the property and the local communities, without whom the surveillance of the property cannot be effective (State Party of Chad, 2022). Additionally, following the act of vandalism (graffiti) in 2017, traditional dignitaries, political leaders, civil society organisations, and executives from the province were asked to raise awareness in the surrounding area, which led to the population becoming more aware (State Party of Chad, 2024).
Legal framework
The Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve was created by Decree No. 260/PR/PM/MCDT/2016 (2016). The responsibility for its management lies with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Historical Heritage, Tourism and Crafts through the National Inter-ministerial Committee of World Heritage Sites, the Directorate for Cultural Heritage, a Site Director, and the Local Management Committee (State Party of Chad, 2024). In addition, the property is protected under various legal instruments, the most important of which are Law No. 14/PR/2008 on forests, wildlife, and fishery resources, Law No. 14/PR/98 on the environment, and Law No. 14/PR/60 on the protection of natural monuments and sites and prehistoric and archaeological monuments and objects.
Governance arrangements
The Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve was created by Decree No. 260/PR/PM/MCDT/2016 (2016). The responsibility for its management lies with the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and Historical Heritage, Tourism and Crafts through the National Inter-ministerial Committee of World Heritage Sites, the Directorate for Cultural Heritage, a Site Director, and the Local Management Committee (State Party of Chad, 2024). In February 2018, A Partnership Agreement was signed between the Government of the Republic of Chad and African Parks Network (APN) for the Support of the Creation, then the Management and the Financing of the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve (RNCE). Within the framework of the creation of the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve (RNCE), it was proposed that the joint steering committee (Government - African Parks Network (GVT-APN)) of the RNCE, i.e., the Board of Directors (BD) of the RNCE, should be composed of representatives of the 2 key Ministries (Ministry in charge of the Environment and Ministry of Cultural Affairs, Historical Heritage, Tourism, and Crafts). The RNCE's Board of Directors is therefore the decision-making and policy-making body (State Party of Chad, 2024).
Integration into local, regional and national planning systems (including sea/landscape connectivity)
Data deficient
Boundaries
The original boundaries of the area nominated by the State Party were revised during the course of the evaluation process. Specifically, a reduction of approximately 20% was introduced which excluded areas in the Northern part of the original nomination where an oil concession was granted. The excluded area contains significant attributes important for supporting the OUV of the site and therefore this excision is of concern (IUCN, 2016).Subsequently, it has been proposed to create a Natural and Cultural Reserve of Ennedi (RNCE), which would include the entire mountain chain of Ennedi (UNESCO, 2018). The State Party, with the support of the European Union through the funding of the ‘Protected Areas and Fragile Ecosystems’ (APEF) programme, created the Ennedi Nature and Cultural Reserve (ENCR) covering an area of 40. 000km² by Decree no. 260/PR/PM/MCDT/2016 of 05 March 2016 with the aim of strengthening the management and protection of the Ennedi Massif, a World Heritage Site, in a sustainable manner (State Party of Chad, 2024).
Overlapping international designations
No overlapping designation
Implementation of World Heritage Committee decisions and recommendations
Following the inscription of the site on the World Heritage List in 2016, the World Heritage Committee made various requests and recommendations (World Heritage Committee, 2016). Several recommendations are currently being addressed by the State Party, but others have yet to be implemented, partly due to limited funding and the unstable security situation in the region.
Climate action
The Ennedi Massif: Natural and Cultural Landscape is increasingly vulnerable to climate change. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and intensified desertification are accelerating erosion processes that threaten both its iconic sandstone formations and invaluable rock art. Recent climate assessments indicate that the Sahara region, including the Ennedi, is undergoing significant warming and drying trends, which exacerbate natural weathering and degrade the cultural landscape. The Sahel region experienced record rainfall during the 2024 rainy season. In Chad, flooding as a result of these heavy rains affected two properties inscribed on the World Heritage List, including the Ennedi Massif. The State Party submitted a request for international assistance to UNESCO's World Heritage Fund to assess the damage caused to the OUV of the property, as well as to study the consequences of the flooding on the micro-environment and the urgent needs on the ground (State Party of Chad, 2024). The report on this assessment is not yet available.
Management efforts in response to these climate-related threats are not well documented.
Management efforts in response to these climate-related threats are not well documented.
Management plan and overall management system
The site does not have an up-to-date Management Plan, however, African Park Network, the technical partner in charge of the site management, is operating under the framework of a 5-year Business Plan (State Party of Chad, 2022). The Minister of Cultural Affairs, Historical Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts is currently in talks with senior officials and his technical and financial partners to revise the management plan for the Ennedi Massif in 2024, with the full involvement of the communities and the management team of the Ennedi Nature and Cultural Reserve (State Party of Chad, 2024).
Law enforcement
In 2022, 29 new ecoguards completed the basic training module, bringing the total number of ecoguards patrolling the reserve, including the north and east, to 63. The conservation law enforcement team covered over 50,000 km on motorized, camel, and foot patrols, resulting in decreased illegal activities with only two arrests throughout the year. Team training included exchange and capacity-building courses with colleagues from the Greater Zakouma Ecosystem. The control room in Fada began operating 24/7, enabling the team to closely monitor all patrols and teams on the ground. An information analysis department is being developed to enhance the efficiency of all ranger missions (African Park, 2023).
Sustainable finance
In February 2018, Ennedi formally came under the long-term management of the APN in partnership with the Government of the Republic of Chad. This management is supported by funding from the European Union (EU), which committed €10 million under the 11th European Development Fund towards the Greater Zakouma area from 2017-2021, as well as from the Dutch Postcode Lottery, supporting the first three year of African Parks’ management of Ennedi through a €2.9 million ‘Extra Project’ (2018-2020) (African Parks, 2020). This international support is providing important funding to the site. In the medium to longer term, the funding requirements for the effective protection and management of the property will need to be determined, and sustainable funding will need to be secured.
Staff capacity, training and development
In 2022, 29 new ecoguards completed the basic training module, bringing the total number of ecoguards patrolling the reserve, including the north and east, to 63 (African Park, 2022). Team training included exchange and capacity-building courses with colleagues from the Greater Zakouma Ecosystem. The control room in Fada began operating 24/7, enabling the team to closely monitor all patrols and teams on the ground. An information analysis department is being developed to enhance the efficiency of all ranger missions. Additionally, renovations were also undertaken at the ranger camp, and six staff houses were completed (African Park, 2023).
Education and interpretation programmes
The State Party, supported by technical and financial partners, has undertaken a number of operations to manage and protect the values of the property, such as awareness-raising sessions on the importance of conserving the Massif and clean-up days. Awareness and information signboards are also displayed at key places within the property (State Party of Chad, 2024). In 2022, the reserve funded five community teachers’ salaries in four primary schools. In collaboration with local authorities, a new community school with two classrooms was built and equipped in Aloba. Sougounaw Ostrich Farm was renovated and equipped to increase breeding capacity, to begin serving as an educational site for tourists, students, and local people, and to support the long-term objectives of the red-necked ostrich reintroduction project (African Park, 2022). One of the major challenges is promoting education for children and engaging the local communities in topics such as conservation and biodiversity. To tackle this, an innovative project was initiated: The “Les Petits Mouflons” educational truck, which travels across Ennedi raising awareness about environmental protection, particularly reaching areas where formal schooling is scarce. Since it began in the summer, the truck has completed six missions, reaching over a thousand people, with positive feedback. Primary school teachers were trained in environmental education, aiming to integrate the team’s Environmental Education Guide into the national primary education curriculum, covering topics such as biodiversity, archaeology, waste management, and natural resources (African Park, 2023).
Tourism and visitation management
The ENCR’s Tourism Department opened in 2022, and construction of the guesthouse to host VIP supporters and donors progressed well. Ongoing mapping of archaeological sites formed a major part of planning the launch of an exclusive tourist experience in Ennedi in the future (African Park, 2022). Central to the Tourism Development Plan is Ennedi’s exceptional archaeological heritage. In 2023, 14 archaeological survey missions led to the classification of 421 new archaeological sites, including 68 of major importance. The discovery of ancient rock art brings responsibility with it, and plans are being made with UNESCO to put an effective protection strategy in place. The construction of Oundoubah Camp, scheduled for completion in 2024, aims to elevate the overall visitor experience. The tourism
department successfully ran a remote “Mouflon Camp” on multiple occasions for partners visiting the reserve. To raise the reserve’s visibility in the region, informative brochures and booklets were designed, detailing the fauna, flora, and archaeological heritage sites of Ennedi (African Park, 2023).
department successfully ran a remote “Mouflon Camp” on multiple occasions for partners visiting the reserve. To raise the reserve’s visibility in the region, informative brochures and booklets were designed, detailing the fauna, flora, and archaeological heritage sites of Ennedi (African Park, 2023).
Sustainable use
Traditional uses are permitted in the site (World Heritage Committee, 2017). Livestock grazing is the main local activity, and while its current levels within the site haven't reached a critical stage, it might become an issue in the future with increasing grazing pressure (IUCN, 2016). Today, the Ennedi remains a crucial resource for semi-nomadic groups in search of water and pasture. Finding the right balance between biodiversity conservation and community livelihoods is a major challenge for the sustainable management of protected areas (PAs). The Ennedi Nature and Cultural Reserve, with more than 30,000 people depending on its natural resources, is a typical example of socio-ecological systems. Camel and small ruminant (and to a lesser extent cattle) farming in and around the Ennedi Massif by the Goranes and Zaghawa communities is an integral aspect of this socio-ecological system. It is also the basis for the livelihoods of a large majority of the population and represents the main activity related to the exploitation of natural resources in the reserve (African Park, 2023).
Monitoring
To re-establish species previously lost to the landscape, a pilot group of ten addax was reintroduced to Ennedi from Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Chadian Government, Sahara Conservation, and the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi. Once found in large numbers, the critically endangered addax is slowly being brought back to Chad and, for the first time since the 1970s, addax are roaming the desert landscape of Ennedi. The project continued into 2024 with further reintroductions. The ultimate goal is to establish a healthy, viable population exceeding 500 individuals of both addax and oryx, a vital step in securing the long-term survival of the species and restoring Ennedi’s ecosystem (African Park, 2023). The reintroduction of addax follows the return of the red-necked ostrich to Ennedi, brought from Zakouma National Park in 2021. In November 2023, a batch of 20 red-necked chicks were seen running behind their parents, bringing the population to over 50 birds (African Park, 2023). Specialised teams of eco-monitors track both the addax and ostriches daily, providing important metrics to further analyse their wellbeing and plan future reintroduction projects in the reserve. With these two successful reintroductions, the team in Fada has laid a solid foundation for the continued rewilding of the ENCR (African Park, 2023).
Research
To re-establish species previously lost to the landscape, a pilot group of ten addax was reintroduced to Ennedi from Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Chadian Government, Sahara Conservation, and the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi. Once found in large numbers, the critically endangered addax is slowly being brought back to Chad and, for the first time since the 1970s, addax are roaming the desert landscape of Ennedi. The project continued into 2024 with further reintroductions. The ultimate goal is to establish a healthy, viable population exceeding 500 individuals of both addax and oryx, a vital step in securing the long-term survival of the species and restoring Ennedi’s ecosystem (African Park, 2023). The reintroduction of addax follows the return of the red-necked ostrich to Ennedi, brought from Zakouma National Park in 2021. In November 2023, a batch of 20 red-necked chicks were seen running behind their parents, bringing the population to over 50 birds (African Park, 2023). To better protect, conserve, and manage the site, the Government, with the support of its partners, has carried out several studies on the key attributes of the property. Reports and manuals associated with the property were published, including on bird species richness, plants, mammals, and the rock art of the Ennedi Massif, as well as their state of conservation. Several mammal species have been confirmed in the property, including Barbary sheep, Dorcas gazelle, striped hyaena, jackal, fennec fox, and Patas monkey (State Party of Chad, 2024). However, the World Heritage Committee requested the State Party to present more details on the status of biodiversity, including flagship species such as the relic crocodile population, including its genetic viability (UNESCO, 2024).
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats outside the site
The effectiveness of the management system and governance in addressing threats outside the property appears to be somewhat limited. The primary focus of the management efforts is on internal threats such as poaching, off-road driving, and livestock grazing, with significant attention given to the involvement of local communities and the establishment of ecoguards. While these internal measures are important, there is little mention of coordinated efforts with neighboring regions or countries to address cross-border threats, such as illegal wildlife trade or climate change impacts, which could affect the site from outside its boundaries. The lack of detailed information on external threat management suggests that this aspect may not be a current priority, potentially leaving the site vulnerable to external pressures.
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats inside the site
The management system and governance within the property have demonstrated significant effectiveness in addressing internal threats, as evidenced by the establishment of a robust framework involving local communities, ecoguards, and partnerships with African Parks Network (APN). Key achievements include the recruitment and training of ecoguards, which has led to a reduction in illegal activities such as poaching, as well as the implementation of measures like banning the cutting of green wood and controlling off-road driving. The reintroduction of species such as addax and red-necked ostriches, along with daily monitoring by specialized teams, highlights proactive efforts to restore biodiversity. Additionally, the involvement of local communities in decision-making and awareness-raising initiatives has strengthened conservation efforts. However, challenges remain, such as the need for an updated management plan and addressing the inbreeding threat to the relic crocodile population. Overall, while the management system is mostly effective, continued efforts are required to fully mitigate internal threats and ensure long-term conservation.
The overall state of protection and management of the property is somewhat effective, with significant progress made in addressing internal threats through a combination of local community involvement, ecoguard patrols, and partnerships with organizations like the African Parks Network (APN). The site benefits from a relatively strong governance framework, including the establishment of the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve (ENCR) and the recruitment of ecoguards, which has led to a reduction in illegal activities such as poaching and off-road driving. Efforts to reintroduce species like addax and red-necked ostriches, along with daily monitoring, demonstrate proactive conservation measures. However, challenges remain, including the need for an updated management plan, addressing the inbreeding threat to the relic crocodile population, and managing increasing tourism pressures. The involvement of local communities in decision-making and awareness-raising initiatives has been a key strength, contributing to the site's effective management. Despite these successes, the site faces external threats beyond the control of the management authority, such as climate change, which is causing rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and desertification, threatening the site's iconic sandstone formations and rock art. Additionally, while the site is not transboundary or transnational, it is located in a region with historical instability, which could pose indirect challenges to conservation efforts. The management system has shown limited ability to address threats originating outside the site, such as potential impacts from oil and gas exploration in adjacent areas, which could affect the site's integrity and values. Furthermore, while the site hosts important biodiversity values, including relict species and unique ecosystems, the management's focus has primarily been on flagship species and tourism development, with less emphasis on broader biodiversity conservation. Overall, while the site's protection and management are commendable, there is a need for enhanced strategies to address external threats and ensure the long-term conservation of its Outstanding Universal Value.
Good practice examples
The management units for the property and the tourist sites are mainly comprised of the local population, including the local traditional authorities. 40 local people, including 3 women, were recruited and trained in 2020 to form a team of ecoguards. The Massif site manager is also a native of Ennedi. Additionally, following the act of vandalism (graffiti) in 2017, traditional dignitaries, political leaders, civil society organisations and executives from the province were asked to raise awareness in the surrounding area, which led to the population becoming more aware.
Desert landscape of outstanding aesthetic value
Low Concern
Trend
Data Deficient
At the time of inscription, the outstanding landscape values of the property were considered to be in good condition (IUCN, 2016). However, several pressures (tourism, livestock grazing) are expected to increase and might result in negative impacts on the aesthetic value of the property. Additionally, the heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in 2024 have introduced new concerns. The flooding, which affected two World Heritage properties in Chad, including the Ennedi Massif, has the potential to significantly impact the site's aesthetic and ecological values. The State Party has requested international assistance to assess the damage and study the consequences on the micro-environment, but the full impact remains uncertain until the assessment report is available.
Conditions enabling survival of relict species far from their current distribution
High Concern
Trend
Improving
Ennedi has long been a refuge for Saharan wildlife, with species such as addax, oryx, cheetah, Dama, and Leptocere gazelles among others present in large numbers until the mid-20th century. While poaching and conflict have almost eradicated these species, some exceptional wildlife spectacles remain (African Parks, 2020). Also, a significant loss of populations of many key species was documented in the site in the past (IUCN, 2016), and while viable populations of many other species still exist in the site, this raises concerns regarding the impacts on the ecosystem integrity and functioning.
To re-establish species previously lost to the landscape, a pilot group of ten addax was reintroduced to Ennedi from Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Chadian Government, Sahara Conservation, and the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi. Once found in large numbers, the critically endangered addax is slowly being brought back to Chad and, for the first time since the 1970s, addax are roaming the desert landscape of Ennedi. The ultimate goal is to establish a healthy, viable population exceeding 500 individuals of both addax and oryx, a vital step in securing the long-term survival of the species and restoring Ennedi’s ecosystem (African Park, 2023). The reintroduction of addax follows the return of the red-necked ostrich to Ennedi, brought from Zakouma National Park in 2021. In November 2023, a batch of 20 red-necked chicks were seen running behind their parents, bringing the population to over 50 birds (African Park, 2023). With these two successful reintroductions, the team in Fada has laid a solid foundation for the continued rewilding of the ENCR (African Park, 2023). In addition, an agreement between Ennedi and the Chief of Canton of Archida was signed to ensure the protection of biodiversity around the Guelta d’Archei, home to the last population of West African crocodile in Ennedi (African Park, 2023). Several mammal species have been confirmed in the property, including Barbary sheep, Dorcas gazelle, striped hyaena, jackal, fennec fox, and Patas monkey (State Party of Chad, 2024).
Although these data show that various species are present, their state of conservation or recovery currently remains uncertain, with the World Heritage Committee having requested the State Party to present more details on the status of biodiversity, including flagship species such as the relict crocodile population, including its genetic viability (UNESCO, 2024).
To re-establish species previously lost to the landscape, a pilot group of ten addax was reintroduced to Ennedi from Abu Dhabi in partnership with the Chadian Government, Sahara Conservation, and the Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi. Once found in large numbers, the critically endangered addax is slowly being brought back to Chad and, for the first time since the 1970s, addax are roaming the desert landscape of Ennedi. The ultimate goal is to establish a healthy, viable population exceeding 500 individuals of both addax and oryx, a vital step in securing the long-term survival of the species and restoring Ennedi’s ecosystem (African Park, 2023). The reintroduction of addax follows the return of the red-necked ostrich to Ennedi, brought from Zakouma National Park in 2021. In November 2023, a batch of 20 red-necked chicks were seen running behind their parents, bringing the population to over 50 birds (African Park, 2023). With these two successful reintroductions, the team in Fada has laid a solid foundation for the continued rewilding of the ENCR (African Park, 2023). In addition, an agreement between Ennedi and the Chief of Canton of Archida was signed to ensure the protection of biodiversity around the Guelta d’Archei, home to the last population of West African crocodile in Ennedi (African Park, 2023). Several mammal species have been confirmed in the property, including Barbary sheep, Dorcas gazelle, striped hyaena, jackal, fennec fox, and Patas monkey (State Party of Chad, 2024).
Although these data show that various species are present, their state of conservation or recovery currently remains uncertain, with the World Heritage Committee having requested the State Party to present more details on the status of biodiversity, including flagship species such as the relict crocodile population, including its genetic viability (UNESCO, 2024).
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Improving
The property continues to uphold its outstanding aesthetic and ecological values, though it faces a combination of ongoing challenges and recent improvements. The desert landscape, characterized by its striking morphological and color contrasts, remains in good condition, with the iconic Guelta d'Archei and its relict crocodile population. However, emerging threats such as increasing tourism, livestock grazing, and off-road driving pose risks to the site's aesthetic value if not carefully managed. Additionally, the heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in 2024 have introduced new concerns. The flooding, which affected two World Heritage properties in Chad, including the Ennedi Massif, has the potential to significantly impact the site's aesthetic and ecological values. The State Party has requested international assistance to assess the damage and study the consequences on the micro-environment, but the full impact remains uncertain until the assessment report is available. The establishment of long-term management and the development of a tourism strategy by the African Parks Network offer opportunities to mitigate these pressures, but the effectiveness of these measures will depend on their implementation and enforcement. In terms of biodiversity, the Ennedi Massif has seen some positive developments, particularly in species reintroduction efforts. The reintroduction of addax and red-necked ostriches, species that were nearly eradicated due to poaching and conflict, marks a significant step towards restoring the site's ecological integrity. The presence of species such as Barbary sheep, Dorcas gazelle, and the relic crocodile population indicates that the site still supports important biodiversity. However, the inbreeding of the crocodile population and the lack of detailed data on the genetic viability of key species remain concerns. The 2024 flooding events could exacerbate these issues by altering habitats and potentially disrupting the fragile ecosystems that support these species. Overall, while the site's ecological values are showing signs of recovery, ongoing threats and the need for more comprehensive and long-term biodiversity monitoring suggest that the trend is stable with potential for improvement if current conservation efforts are sustained and expanded.
Additional information
Outdoor recreation and tourism
Tourism is currently limited due to remoteness of the area, but might increase in the future. While this could provide new opportunities for local communities, it will also need to be carefully managed in order to avoid any impacts on the property's values.
Importance for research
A number of universities and research institutions, for example the University of Köln, have been involved in research activities in the property (State Party of Chad, 2015).
History and tradition,
Sacred natural sites or landscapes,
Cultural identity and sense of belonging
The Ennedi hosts a large number of prehistoric sites; among them are numerous sites with rock art of great variety (cf. Simonis et al. 2017).
One could think about conservation measures; the free access of tourists to sites could affect them.
| № | Organization | Brief description of Active Projects | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | European Union, APN, AGRECO | Le programme APEF repose sur 3 résultats et privilégie une gestion contractuelle allégée avec un nombre limité d’opérateurs. Résultat 1 : Gouvernance, financement durable et renforcement institutionnel : Les capacités des institutions de conservation de la biodiversité, des aires protégées et du patrimoine sont renforcées. Résultat 2 : Grand écosystème fonctionnel de Zakouma : Un modèle de conservation durable du Grand écosystème fonctionnel de Zakouma est développé et mis en œuvre de manière concertée. Résultat 3 : Patrimoines sahélo-sahariens : La protection, la gestion concertée et la mise en valeur des écosystèmes fragiles et sites patrimoniaux au bénéfice des communautés locales des zones sahélo-saharienne et saharienne sont assurées durablement. |
https://apef-conservation.org/
|
References
| № | References |
|---|---|
| 1 |
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| 2 |
African Park Network (2023). Annual report: Reflecting on the past, building for the future. Available at https://www.africanparks.org/sites/default/files/uploads/re…
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| 3 |
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| 4 |
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| 5 |
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Brundu, Giuseppe and Ignazio Camarda. (2013). The Flora of Chad: a checklist and brief analysis. PhytoKeys 23: 1–17. 10.3897/phytokeys.23.4752
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| 7 |
Gillet, Hubert. (1968). Le peuplement végétal du Massif de l'Ennedi (Tchad). Musée national d'histoire naturelle (France). 163-166.
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| 8 |
IUCN (2016). World Heritage Nomination – IUCN Technical Evaluation, Ennedi Massif: Natural and Cultural Landscape (Chad). In: IUCN World Heritage Evaluations 2016, IUCN Evaluations of nominations of natural and mixed properties to the World Heritage List. WHC/16/40.COM/INF.8B2. [online] Gland, Switzerland: IUCN. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1475/documents/ (Accessed 27 October 2017).
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| 9 |
Simonis, R.; Ravenna, A.; Rossi, P.P. (2017). Ennedi. Tales on stone. Florenz: All’Insegna del Giglio.
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| 10 |
State Party of Chad (2015). Proposition d'inscription du Massif de l'Ennedi, Tchad. Site soumis à l'inscription sur la Liste du patrimoine mondial de l'UNESCO. [en ligne] Ndjamena, Chad: Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, pp.1-841. Available at https://whc.unesco.org/uploads/nominations/1475.pdf [Accessed 23 February 2017].
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| 13 |
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| 14 |
UNESCO (2018). Report on the State of Conservation of Ennedi Massif: Natural and Cultural Landscape, Chad. State of Conservation Information System of the World Heritage Centre. [online] Paris, France: UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/fr/soc/3687 (Accessed 10 March 2020).
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| 16 |
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| 18 |
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| 19 |
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