Goma, October 26, 2024 (Fatshimetrie). The preservation of the Nzulo lands, located in the Virunga National Park, is at the heart of a major communication campaign recently launched in Goma, in the province of North Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This initiative aims to raise awareness among the population against land grabbing practices and to remind people that these lands belong to the public domain of the State.
Led by the Virunga National Park, the “Nzulo is not for sale” campaign highlights the importance of protecting these natural spaces that are essential to the preservation of biodiversity. Through messages broadcast in the media, off-media and on social networks, the PNVi wishes to raise awareness among citizens of the need to preserve the integrity of the Nzulo lands, in accordance with the laws in force.
Bienvenu Bwende, communications officer of Virunga National Park, emphasizes that these lands, with the exception of the Nzulo, Mihonga, Kabazana and Kitwalo hills, are an integral part of the park and fall within the public domain of the State. Any attempt to dispossess these lands constitutes a violation of the legal provisions governing the management of the park, and may result in severe legal consequences.
Indeed, Law No. 14/003 of February 11, 2014 relating to the conservation of nature specifies that the lands of Nzulo are part of the public domain of the State under the management of the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN). Any real estate transaction concerning plots outside the four hills mentioned is strictly prohibited and constitutes an illegal practice liable to prosecution.
This awareness campaign is part of an approach to protect the environment and preserve the natural resources of Virunga National Park. It aims to inform and mobilize citizens against any attempt to dispossess the Nzulo lands, and to encourage collective awareness of the importance of conserving these unique natural spaces.
Ultimately, the “Nzulo is not for sale” campaign represents a call for vigilance and commitment from everyone to safeguard our shared natural heritage. By widely disseminating this message, Virunga National Park hopes to raise public awareness and contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and the fragile ecosystem of this region.
Ultimately, protecting the Nzulo lands is not only about their physical preservation, but also about safeguarding their symbolic and environmental value for future generations. It is a collective duty to ensure that these natural spaces remain intact and are passed on intact to future generations.