Campaign Overview

Launched in November 2017 as Voices for Momos, the Voices for Wildlife campaign began as a response to a sudden surge in elephant poaching in Myanmar. Initiated by a coalition of Myanmar’s leading conservation organizations, alongside government and corporate partners, the campaign aimed to mobilize the public, increase awareness, and end illegal trade of wildlife and wildlife products in Myanmar.

In 2017, The campaign’s name ‘Voices for Momos’ paid homage to “Momo,” a beloved elephant in Yangon, making the issue emotionally resonant for the public. Seven giant papier-mâché elephants marched through the streets of Yangon, sparking national attention and dialogue. A high-profile petition drive, supported by celebrities, influencers, and athletes, including WWF-Myanmar’s Ambassador in Fighting Wildlife Crime and ONE Championship Champion Aung La, amplified the call to action: to stop buying, selling, and using wildlife products.

Building on the success in Yangon, the campaign expanded into Voices for Wildlife, tackling the broader issue of illegal wildlife trade across the country. Events like Myanmar’s first-ever wildlife music festival in Mahabandoola Park supported by the Embassy of Denmark and the groundbreaking Mandalay Street Parade for Wildlife brought together communities, culture, and conservation.

The campaign engaged authorities directly, resulting in strengthened regional commitments and enforcement against illegal wildlife trade. Through public outreach, cultural engagement, and strong partnerships, Voices for Wildlife became a milestone initiative in Myanmar’s conservation movement.