Ousainou Touray is the deputy director of the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management in Gambia, where he helps to prepare, manage, and coordinate projects on biological diversity, agricultural investment, sustainable land management, and the management of protected areas. Prior to being appointed deputy director, Mr. Touray worked for the Convention on Biological Diversity, as well the World Bank funded project on Gambian Biodiversity Management and Institutional Strengthening. His professional career includes experience not only in project management and implementation, but also in practical training in environmental conservation, wildlife conservation, climate change, and natural resource management. He's held positions in many different levels of project implementation, giving him the unique experience of understanding the requirements of successful policies and projects. He has a master's degree in protected area management from the International Institute for Water and Environmental Engineering, as well as a High National Diploma in natural resources management from the Southern African Wildlife College. In addition, he holds a certificate in Wildlife Conservation and natural resources management from the Ecological Institute of Dalaba, Niokolo-Koba.