The project aims to strengthen the capacity and involvement of social organizations in biodiversity conservation and saola protection. It also seeks to raise awareness among the community and stakeholders, helping to improve wildlife management and protection policies.

In addition, the initiative will work towards ending the illegal wildlife trade and consumption in Hue, while supporting the implementation of the National Biodiversity Conservation Plan for the period of 2021-2030, with a vision toward 2050.

According to the plan, by June, the project will enhance the capacity of social organizations and local communities in wildlife management and protection. By September, communication and advocacy activities will be launched to promote the importance of biodiversity and wildlife conservation. By June 2026, forest patrols and protection efforts in the Saola Nature Reserve will be intensified, with forest rangers receiving necessary equipment and conservation expertise from professionals in other protected areas.

The saola, often called the Asian "unicorn" due to its elusive nature, inhabits dense forests in remote, challenging terrains. It is considered critically endangered, with fewer than 100 individuals estimated to remain globally. The species is threatened by habitat loss, illegal hunting to supply the wildlife trade, and climate change.

Bach Ma National Park in Thua Thien-Hue has been selected as the site for the world’s only saola breeding center, playing a crucial role in the efforts to conserve this rare species.

Quang Binh works to save Saola from brink of extinction

Authorities of the central province of Quang Binh are embarking on activities to save Saola, one of the rarest and most threatened mammals on the planet, from the brink of extinction.