Dear colleagues, EDMAKTUB Association is currently working on the SACET Project (South Atlantic Cetacean), which is a multidisciplinary research and conservation initiative, dedicated to the study of cetaceans and their habitat in the South Atlantic Ocean. The expedition takes place along the West African coast, from Gibraltar Strait to South Africa, touching several archipelagos including the Canary Islands, Cabo Verde, São Tomé and Príncipe. Focusing mainly on investigating cetacean species distribution, habitat use, behavior, acoustics, photo-identification, and morphometrics, including body condition assessments. The project also monitors other marine megafauna, such as sea turtles, seabirds, and fish, and evaluates the state of diverse marine habitats, ranging from the pelagic zone and coastal waters to coral reefs, mangrove forests, and adjacent inshore areas. Additionally, SACET includes monitoring of marine debris, with a focus on plastics and litter, to assess human impact on the ecosystem. The project emphasizes collaboration and outreach with local organizations to support long-term conservation and knowledge exchange in the region. We are currently progressing southward from Cabo Verde toward São Tomé and Príncipe, where our primary research focus will center on Humpback whales (*Megaptera novaeangliae*), which aggregate in the region for breeding and calving.
From approximately October onward, the expedition is expected to continue further south, with potential stops on the way, for example in Angola during October and November, as we make our way toward South Africa.
Preliminary plans for the following year include a return voyage beginning in May, tracking the West African coastline northwards from South Africa back to São Tomé and Príncipe, with potential stops. We welcome opportunities for collaboration and are open to conducting joint surveys or scientific initiatives along our route. For further information or to explore potential partnerships, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@edmaktub.org A more detailed overview is available on our website: www.edmaktub.org/sacet-project/ Kind regrads, EDMAKTUB Team www.edmaktub.org