Management of Kumasi Zoo is collaborating with non-governmental organisations to breed a rare, endangered monkey species native to the southwestern part of Ghana.

Manager of the Zoo, Dr. (Vet. Med.) Meyir Zeikah Yiryele revealed that the initiative aims at reviving the species, whose disappearance has been attributed to severe forest degradation in the region.

Speaking on Luv FM, Dr Zeikah indicated that the animal, after breeding, will be released into the wild for biodiversity conservation.

“Together with some NGOs, we are breeding a special type of monkey that occurred in the south-western corner of Ghana, which went into extinction due to forest degradation. We are breeding some of these animals to be released to the wild after proper studies,” he explained.

In addition to conservation initiatives, Dr Yiryele outlined strategic plans to enhance the zoo’s operations.

He noted that the Forestry Commission is actively seeking partnerships with private enterprises to inject innovative business ideas that will amplify the zoo’s activities and tourism appeal.

“Private people should come and partner with forestry commission with products that can boost tourism. Anybody who has a business idea can come to us, and we will direct you to our business development unit, and then we will see how you can partner with the Forestry Commission to take Kumasi Zoo to the next level,” he encouraged.

The Kumasi Zoo has in recent years, seen significant patronage, ranking fourth on the national chart and first in the Ashanti region.

The zoo recorded 118,764 visitors in 2025 and has already welcomed over 20,000 visitors since the beginning of 2026.

About 80% of these visitors are reported to be students, who benefit from the zoo’s blend of educational and recreational programs.

Dr Yiryele attributed the impressive statistics to the improved and now therapeutic environment at the zoo.

“All the figures that I mentioned about the visitors, 80% are students. These animals are exciting to students, it’s for entertainment, and secondly, they learn a lot,” he remarked.

Addressing concerns about the zoo’s future, Dr Yiryele assured the public that its current location is secure.

He disclosed that two months ago, members of the Forestry Commission board met with the Asantehene in Kumasi, who reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the zoo at its present site.

“The board members of the Forestry Commission came to the Ashanti region, we went to the king of Ashanti, and he assured the Forestry Commission, Asantiman and the whole of Ghana that the zoo is going to remain where it is,” Dr Yiryele stated.