Siniaka-Minia Faunal Reserve

The reserve is large plain terrain with a backdrop of a massif which rises to a height of 1,613 metres (5,292 ft). It is drained by the Siniaka River and Dorioum River, which are ephemeral in nature; some water holes remain for use during the summer months.[2]

Vegetation in the southern part of the reserve is of Sudan savanna while in the north it consists of thorny bushes. The reserve, apart from preserving many threatened species, also contains greater kudu, red-fronted gazelle, oribi, roan antelope, lion and cheetah.[2]

In January and February of 2022, African Parks moved over 900 buffalo from Zakouma National Park to Siniaka-Minia, marking the largest buffalo translocation ever undertaken. Many of the animals came from a herd at the outskirts of Zakouma, which was at risk of spilling out of the protected area and into the agricultural lands of nearby communities.

Wild animals in the reserve are subject to degree of poaching by well armed hunters which has been difficult to control in view of lack adequate personnel and equipment to carry out effective surveillance operations. It would still need attention as there are sufficient number of mammal species which need to be conserved.[2]

African Parks is currently discussing with the Chadian government to convert this reserve into a national park. This transformation will grant Siniaka-Minia enhanced protection, which is required if its wildlife populations are to survive in the future.