TBNClimate
Togo’s growing belief-based use trade sweeping up avian biodiversity, says study
Publication: Conservation news
Authors: Shreya Dasgupta, Sean Mowbray
Source published: 02/11/2026, 13:31:05 UTC
Briefing created: 02/11/2026, 15:18:14 UTC
Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 02/11/2026, 15:09:24 UTC.
Briefings
A recent study reveals that the Akodessewa Fetish Market in Lomé, Togo, has expanded rapidly since 2016, with a 2022-2024 survey showing over twice the number of wildlife stands and four times the bird species compared to 2016. The market now sells 82 bird species from 36 families, including hornbills and threatened species like the Yellow-casqued hornbill, despite the market being a major source for belief-based wildlife trade in West Africa.
Key points
- The Akodessewa Fetish Market in Lomé, Togo, has expanded significantly since 2016, with a 2022-2024 survey showing over twice the number of wildlife stands and four times the bird species compared to 2016.
- 82 bird species from 36 families were on offer at the market, including hornbills and threatened species like the Yellow-casqued hornbill, which are presumed extinct in Togo.
Context
This finding is significant because it contradicts the expectation that a major wildlife trade market would shrink, indicating that restrictions are not disrupting trade. The market is located in Lomé, Togo, and is a primary source for belief-based wildlife trade in West Africa.
Limitations
The study covers only the Akodessewa Fetish Market in Lomé, Togo, between 2022 and 2024. It does not provide data on other markets or regions, nor does it account for trade outside of belief-based uses or other trade channels.
Generated by Bittrees-hosted qwen35-2b sha256:aaf42c8b7c3c on 02/11/2026, 15:18:14 UTC. Based on publisher-provided feed evidence; may not cover the full original article. Check the source for details.
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