Wildlife tourism opens a new page in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The province of Haut-Uélé has just received white rhinos from South Africa. This action is a continuation of the creation of the Garamba wildlife sanctuary, which aims to protect the habitat of animals such as elephants, giraffes, hippos, buffaloes, okapis, etc.
Over the next three years, around 60 white rhinos are expected to join the province. Hard hit by wars and poaching, white rhinos have seen their population decimated over the years. The project to reintroduce these endangered species into their new habitat is the result of a collaboration between Kibali Gold Mine, a subsidiary of Barrick Gold, African Park and the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation ( ICCN).
The objective of this initiative is to create a new population group for this species to contribute to its long-term survival. This will also enhance the attractiveness of the park for ecotourists who can come and admire these animals in their natural habitat.
Christophe Nangaa, Governor of Haut-Uélé, stressed that the arrival of white rhinos will boost tourism and force the authorities to work on infrastructure to make the region more accessible. Conserving biodiversity is fundamental to the survival of the planet, essential to combat climate change and has an important role to play in the war against poverty.
The arrival of white rhinos from Garamba must be made profitable. Garamba National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the oldest national parks in Africa, it covers about 5000 km² and is located 70 km north of the Kibali mine. Elephants, lions, northern giraffes, hippos, buffaloes and okapi also inhabit the park.
If wildlife tourism can contribute on the one hand to the protection of animal species, it can on the other hand help the economic development of the regions concerned. Faced with the environmental challenge, the reintroduction of white rhinos in Garamba is an initiative to be welcomed. The presence of white rhinos in the Garamba Reserve will increase tourist interest in this destination.
Companies such as Kibali Gold Mine are increasingly involved in projects to preserve biodiversity, and thus contribute to an eco-responsible economy. This should encourage other companies to follow this example for more sustainable exploitation, and better protection of fauna and flora.