Equatorial Guinea bans hunting and eating monkeys

0 Comments | AFP, November, 2007

MALABO (AFP) — Hunting, eating or keeping monkeys in Equatorial Guinea are forbidden as the government is taking pains to prevent the primates from becoming extinct, official media reported Wednesday.

This enforcement measure will also "protect families" and guarantee human health, as "monkeys and other primates carry viruses and dangerous" diseases, according to a decree signed by President Teodoro Obiang Nguema that was broadcast on national radio and television.

Lawbreakers will be subject to fines between 100,000 and 500,000 FCFA (150 and 750 euros, 220 and 1,000 dollars).

In Equatorial Guinea, like in the rest of Africa, primates are threatened with extinction by hunters because their meat is prized and also used to cure people.

© 2007 AFP