A First in North Africa: Agadir to Be World Capital of Crocodilians in May 2026

From May 11 to 19, 2026, the city of Agadir will host, for the first time in North Africa, the 28th edition of the World Congress of the Crocodile Specialist Group of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Held biennially, this flagship event will bring together more than 300 experts, researchers and scientists from all five continents to discuss issues related to the study, management and conservation of crocodilians.

Agadir's selection was no accident. The Crocoparc Agadir's bid was approved after a rigorous selection process, following the previous editions held in Mexico in 2022 and in Darwin, Australia, in 2024. This appointment confirms the scientific credibility earned by the park and underscores its growing role in international conservation networks. Founded in 1971, the Crocodile Specialist Group (CSG) is dedicated to preserving the 28 crocodilian species recognized worldwide.

Under the theme “Crocodilians in an Anthropized World: Conservation, Challenges and Solutions,” this edition aims to update the state of scientific knowledge, identify best conservation practices, and propose responses tailored to ongoing environmental changes. The programme includes a veterinary day, plenary sessions, specialized workshops, scientific poster sessions, as well as field trips and networking opportunities. Special attention will be given to the participation of young African researchers through travel grants.

Beyond its scientific dimension, the congress serves as a flagship showcase for Agadir and the Souss-Massa region, helping boost Morocco’s visibility in the field of threatened‑species conservation. Open since 2015 in the town of Drarga, the Crocoparc spans four hectares and houses more than 300 Nile crocodiles. With this world congress, it reaches a new milestone, positioning itself as an actor capable of shining a spotlight on Agadir on the international scientific stage.

Source : Aujourd'hui le Maroc