Malawi Rescues Over 50 Pangolins Since 2020

The Department of Wildlife has disclosed that it has rescued over fifty pangolins since 2020 following a spate of trafficking cases.

Brighton Kumchedwa, Director of Wildlife and Culture said the rise in these cases is because many Malawians are not aware of that being found with protected species like pangolins is a crime.

Kumchedwa has said the rescued pangolins have been left in protected areas including Kasungu and Majete game reserves.

‘’ We are also developing new measures with an aim of ensuring total protection for the animals. We expect also people to understand about protected species and the role of our department’’ he said.

According to the National Geographic Channel, pangolin scales are made of keratin, the same material that makes up fingernails, hair, and horn.

Pangolin scales, like rhino horn, have no proven medicinal value, yet they are used in traditional Chinese medicine to help with ailments ranging from lactation difficulties to arthritis.

The scales typically dried and ground up into powder, which may be turned into a pill.