The Connect Wildlife Experience by Media General’s Connect FM in partnership with the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, is the star attraction at this year’s Connect Western Region Trade Fair in Takoradi.
Both children and adults are thronging to experience close encounters with wildlife, sparking conversations about the need to strengthen zoos across Ghana.
Monkey Hill, a former monkey sanctuary in Sekondi Takoradi that once delighted locals with its variety of monkeys, has lost its luster over time.
However, Media General’s subsidiary in Takoradi, Connect FM’s Western Trade Fair has revived the excitement with its mobile zoo, captioned, MOBIZOO is bringing joy to residents of Sekondi Takoradi and beyond.
Nhyiraba Paa Kwasi Simpson, Event and Activations Manager said, “Last year, we introduced the Mobizoo without wild animals, and there were calls to add them. After consulting stakeholders, we decided to include wild animals this year, featuring lions, chimpanzees, and others, in response to public demand.” He said.
The excitement here at the Western Trade Fair is palpable as the mobile zoo, featuring species like monkeys, crocodiles, tortoises, pythons, chimpanzee, Lions, Civet Cat among others gives visitors a rare opportunity to interact with wildlife. Parents say this initiative is not only entertaining but also educational for their children.
Kingsley Yankey parent exclaimed, “This is a real-life experience, and I think it’s fantastic! The lions and other animals I saw were massive – bigger than I expected from watching them on TV.”
Elijah Armah, another parent, described the experience as thrilling and nice, saying it’s wonderful to see animals up close in their natural habitat.
Lords Favor Edward Amihere, an excited child, exclaimed, “I loved everything inside! I saw a real lion and was a bit scared at first because people were touching me. But what amazed me was seeing so many different animals I’d never seen before. It’s great for kids like me to experience animals we’ve only seen on TV.”
While the mobile zoo delights visitors, experts note that Ghana’s existing zoos struggle with underfunding and outdated facilities. Conservationists believe investing in these spaces would boost education, tourism, and wildlife conservation.
Tracy Lydia Boadi is the Tourism officer at wildlife Division Takoradi office “We’re using this initiative to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife, not just for the Western Region but across the country.
It’s also promoting eco-tourism, conservation education, and highlighting ways to protect our environment.” She explained.
Visitors to the Wildlife Mobile Zoo are calling on authorities to strengthen Ghana’s zoos and step up wildlife conservation efforts.
Elijah Armah one of the visitors mentioned that “We must safeguard our forests, wildlife reserves, and zoos to support research, education, and eco-tourism. Enhancing our zoos with more animals will not only boost tourism but also provide recreational spaces, promoting conservation and appreciation for wildlife.”
As the mobile zoo captivates audiences, a larger question looms: Will Ghana prioritize wildlife conservation and revitalize its zoos? Meanwhile, families are seizing this rare opportunity at the Western Trade Fair, running from July 26 to August 4, 2025 to shop and also be educated at Takoradi Mall.
