Title: Okapi in danger: mining threatens the Okapi Wildlife Reserve in Ituri, DRC
In the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (RFO) is facing a formidable threat: mining, which is seriously compromising its integrity. Located in the Ituri province, this reserve is home to exceptional biodiversity, including the emblematic Okapi, an endangered species. With an impressive surface area of nearly 14,000 square kilometers, the RFO is a haven for many animal species.
The provincial government recently launched a mission to verify the boundaries of the reserve, which was made official on July 23 in the Mambasa territory. This approach, presented as a necessity to preserve the integrity of the RFO, nevertheless seems to arouse serious concerns. Indeed, whistleblower groups claim that behind this mission lies an attempt to legalize mining within the reserve, thus jeopardizing the preservation of this fragile ecosystem.
The RFO boundary verification mission officially aims to precisely demarcate the areas authorized for mining, in order to prevent illegal activities that could compromise the biodiversity of the reserve. However, voices are being raised to denounce a possible hidden objective aimed at paving the way for mining in protected areas, despite the environmental risks and negative impacts on local fauna and flora.
Created in 1991, the Okapi Wildlife Reserve is recognized for its rich biodiversity, home not only to the Okapi, but also to many other rare animal and plant species. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this reserve is a natural treasure that must be preserved at all costs. The pressure from mining therefore poses a serious threat to the survival of these unique species, whose protection should be a top priority.
It is essential that provincial authorities take concrete measures to ensure the integrity and preservation of the Ituri Okapi Wildlife Reserve. The implementation of strict conservation policies, the strengthening of controls and sanctions against illegal activities, as well as public awareness of the importance of biodiversity, are essential actions to protect this fragile ecosystem. Otherwise, the risk of seeing unique and precious species disappear forever will become an alarming reality.