On this significant day of April 22, 2024, Rutshuru in North Kivu faces distressing news. The Ecoguards from the Congolese Institute for Nature Conservation (ICCN), entrusted with safeguarding Virunga National Park, were compelled to vacate their post in Rwindi. This abrupt decision came in response to threats from the M23 rebels, who imposed a 48-hour ultimatum on them, resulting in the ecoguards suspending their protective duties for almost a week.
In an official statement released by the Rutshuru youth committee on April 21, President Patient Twizere voiced grave apprehension about this critical development. He underlined that the withdrawal of the ecoguards jeopardizes the security of Virunga National Park, which is already under strain due to rebel encroachment. President Twizere urgently implores national and international authorities to intervene, accentuating the irreplaceable significance of safeguarding this biodiversity haven.
President Patient Twizere echoed the concerns of Rutshuru’s youth, highlighting the pivotal role of ecoguards in conserving the park’s diverse flora and fauna. He condemned the illicit trade of timber from the park, which further boosts the interests of the occupying rebels.
Despite M23’s control over Rwindi, the ecoguards exhibited unwavering commitment by upholding their impartiality and protecting the park’s essential infrastructure at any cost. Regrettably, their evacuation in response to rebel pressure underscores the security loopholes in this unstable region.
Prompt actions are imperative to ensure the protection of Virunga National Park and secure the safety of ecoguards who risk their lives for environmental preservation. The urgent plea issued by the president of the Rutshuru youth committee resonates as a clarion call, emphasizing the critical need for immediate measures to preserve this invaluable ecological heritage.
Enhances the article with the most relevant links
– [Deciphering Fatshimetry: Understanding the Political Issues in the DRC](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/22/deciphering-fatshimetry-understanding-the-political-issues-in-the-drc/)
– [Security Crisis in the DRC: Belgium Calls for Firm Measures Against Rwandan Aggression](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/22/security-crisis-in-the-drc-belgium-calls-for-firm-measures-against-rwandan-aggression/)
– [The Spiral of Violence in Goma: The Urgency of Action to Restore Security](https://eng.fatshimetrie.org/2024/04/22/the-spiral-of-violence-in-goma-the-urgency-of-action-to-restore-security/)
– [North Kivu: Ecoguards Leave Their Position in Rwindi Following Threats From the M23](https://www.mediacongo.net/article-actualite-136130_nord_kivu_menaces_par_le_m23_les_garde_parc_de_l_iccn_quittent_leur_poste_de_rwindi.html)