The wildlife sanctuary of Garamba, located in the province of Haut-Uélé, located in the North-East of the DRC, has just welcomed a group of white rhinos. An initiative of the Canadian mining giant, Kibali Gold Mine, a subsidiary of Barrick Gold, to strengthen the biological diversity in the park, but also to revive the tourist industry in the region.
Indeed, this nature reserve covers approximately 5,000 km2, or 20% of the area of this province, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was known as a haven for white rhinos, which had been nearly decimated by poachers and wars in the area. This is why the re-introduction of these animals represents a major zoological challenge.
In total, around a hundred white rhinos should be reintroduced over the years, thanks to cooperation between the mining company and the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation, as well as the expertise of the NGO African Park. The animals, tracked by GPS, will evolve in their natural habitat, benefiting from regular veterinary care.
This project is in line with Barrick Gold Corporation’s mission to contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and wildlife, which is closely linked to the fight against climate change.
The reintroduction of the critically endangered white rhinos is also expected to boost the tourism industry and boost infrastructure investment in this province and help fight poverty.
The governor of the province, Christophe Nangaa, stresses the need for the State and local economic actors to work hand in hand to seize this unique opportunity, while preserving the environment and the living conditions of the local population.
This exceptional initiative therefore offers new perspectives for the preservation of biodiversity, as well as for the region’s tourism and economic industry, while encouraging cooperation between businesses and government actors.