Stories and facts
This sacred grove serves as a haven for Mona and Patas monkeys, revered as divine creatures by the native inhabitants. Preserved through a combination of cultural traditions and conservation efforts, these monkeys thrive in a small forested area, surviving fires and human disturbances that have impacted the surrounding landscapes.
Location and Importance
Located approximately 230km northeast of Accra along the Accra-Hohoe road, Tafi Atome stands as the home to the rare Mona and Patas monkeys. The presence of these monkeys within the village's forests is not a coincidence but the result of a deliberate project initiated in 1993 under the guidance of the Peace Corps. The project aimed to foster community-based ecotourism while safeguarding these exceptional monkey species. Previously residing in a distant tropical jungle, the monkeys now inhabit a small forest on the outskirts of Tafi Atome, maintaining a harmonious coexistence with the local community.
Protected by Tradition
In the belief system of the natives, the Mona and Patas monkeys hold a sacred status akin to that of gods. Consequently, the community adheres to a strict tradition of not harming or killing these revered creatures. This cultural practice acts as an additional layer of protection, ensuring the monkeys' safety and well-being. Tafi Atome's significance is further highlighted by the presence of other sacred groves and burial grounds protected by local communities throughout the region, emphasizing the collective commitment to preserving natural and spiritual heritage.
Activities at Tafi Monkey Sanctuary
The primary attraction at Tafi Monkey Sanctuary is observing the fascinating behaviour of the Mona and Patas monkeys. Visitors can witness these friendly creatures playfully roaming the forest trees and road leading into town. By purchasing a banana, tourists can entice the monkeys to approach them, creating a unique opportunity for interaction and observation.
Access and Development
Accessing Tafi Atome is relatively straightforward, with a branch road located 10km west of Logba leading to the village. Over the past two decades, Tafi Atome has gained popularity as one of the Volta Region's premier tourist destinations. Hundreds of visitors flock to this remarkable sanctuary to marvel at the rare monkeys that willingly share their habitat with humans. The success of Tafi Atome exemplifies the potential of community-based ecotourism, providing an avenue for sustainable development while preserving natural resources.
Tafi Monkey Sanctuary, located in the Volta Region of Ghana, stands as a shining example of a sacred grove that safeguards rare monkey species through a combination of cultural traditions and conservation efforts. This sanctuary has not only protected the Mona and Patas monkeys but has also become a focal point for community-based ecotourism. Visitors to Tafi Atome can witness the harmonious coexistence between humans and monkeys, making it a must-visit destination for those exploring the Volta Region. As similar sacred groves and protected areas abound in the region, there is tremendous potential for the development of small-scale tourism, offering opportunities for rural communities to thrive and prosper while preserving their natural and cultural heritage.
