Title: The challenges of environmental destruction in Virunga National Park
Introduction :
Virunga National Park, located in the North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is suffering severe environmental destruction caused by illegal logging. More than a million trees have been felled by Ugandan troops deployed under the East African Community (EAC) mission, according to an alarming report. This uncontrolled exploitation not only threatens the biodiversity of the park, but also compromises its recognition as a RAMSAR site and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Logging by Ugandan soldiers:
According to the testimonies of Aimé Mbusa Mukanda, notable and human rights defender, the Ugandan soldiers of the EAC are actively involved in logging in Virunga National Park. They bring machinists to cut down the trees and use the wood as planks and charcoal, which they export to Uganda via the Bunagana border post. This illicit activity undermines the ecological balance of the park and the local economy.
A call for vigilance and punishment of the guilty:
Faced with this worrying situation, environmental defenders and activists are calling on the Congolese government to take drastic measures to end environmental destruction in Virunga National Park. They demand that investigations be carried out to identify and punish those responsible for this illegal exploitation. It is essential that the military who are supposed to protect natural resources become the accomplices of traffickers.
Involvement of armed groups and FARDC elements:
In addition to the involvement of the Ugandan military, activists also denounce the activism of armed groups operating in Virunga National Park. These groups take advantage of the chaos to participate in the plundering of natural resources. In addition, certain elements of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) are also accused of participating in this environmental destruction, notably in Salonga Park, the oldest park in Africa located in the territory of Nyiragongo.
Conclusion :
Environmental destruction in Virunga National Park is a matter of concern that requires urgent action. International cooperation, as well as the vigilance of the Congolese authorities, are essential to put an end to this illegal logging. It is time to act to preserve the biodiversity of our planet and guarantee a sustainable future for future generations.