Category: Ecology

Surface mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo has serious socio-environmental consequences. Ecosystem and biodiversity destruction, water and soil pollution, landscape degradation and economic disruption are some of the problems caused by this practice. To address these issues, it is necessary to put in place strict regulatory measures, promote sustainable mining practices and raise awareness among local populations. Only a responsible and balanced approach can guarantee the preservation of the environment and the well-being of local communities.

The Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi Foundation honored 58 Congolese students for their academic excellence in a moving ceremony. These high school finalists have been selected to join the Excellentia family, and will receive a 5-year university scholarship in the DRC or abroad. The ceremony took place in the presence of the Prime Minister and the President of the Republic, who welcomed this initiative and stressed the importance of investing in Congolese youth. Since its creation, the Excellentia program now has 241 scholars who are helping to train a new generation of competent and committed leaders.

This article highlights a recent operation to combat ivory trafficking in Gabon. People suspected of trafficking have been arrested with a seizure of 120 kilos of ivory destined for the Asian market. The NGO “Conservation-Justice” played a key role in this operation. Gabon has tightened its legislation on ivory trafficking, with prison sentences of up to 10 years. The decline in elephant populations in Africa is alarming and it is crucial to continue to protect these animals and the biodiversity of our planet.

The artisanal exploitation of cassiterite by children in Manono, in the province of Tanganyika, is a worrying situation for their health and development. Although lucrative, this practice exposes children to dangerous working conditions and deprives them of their right to education. Local authorities and non-governmental organizations must act quickly to end this exploitation, by establishing controls and regulations, as well as by educating families and communities about the dangers of this practice. Only collective action will guarantee a better future for these vulnerable children.

Gabon stands out by announcing an innovative “debt-for-nature” swap project aimed at investing $163 million in the preservation of the oceans in exchange for a partial restructuring of its debt. The country thus becomes the first in Africa to use this method, which has already been successful in other countries. The funds raised will be used to protect endangered marine species and to strengthen conservation measures. This initiative places Gabon as a pioneer in green finance and demonstrates its commitment to the climate and the environment. Hopefully other countries will follow this example to protect our precious marine biodiversity.

Abstract (100 words):

The United States is taking action against corruption related to wildlife trafficking in the DRC. Several individuals implicated in acts of corruption have been designated as ineligible to enter American territory. Wildlife trafficking in the DRC is a global scourge that endangers biodiversity and ecosystems. The designated individuals abused their position to facilitate the trafficking of protected species. The actions taken by the United States show its commitment to the fight against wildlife trafficking in the DRC, but more efforts are needed to fight corruption and protect biodiversity.

The article highlights the importance of sustainable development during the Games of La Francophonie in the DRC. John Katumba, supervisor of the “Sustainable Development and Tourism” Commission, explains that the stakes of the Games go beyond the event itself. He highlights various projects aimed at promoting sanitation, eco-citizenship education and tourism in tourist sites around Kinshasa. During the Games, measures were taken to ensure a clean and pleasant environment for all. However, it is necessary to set up a team of experts to guarantee the sustainability of the infrastructures and their use after the event. The Games of La Francophonie in the DRC offer a unique opportunity to promote sustainable development and leave a beneficial legacy for all.

The recent sanctions imposed on Cosma Wilungula, former Director General of ICCN in the DRC, for wildlife trafficking and falsification of permits, expose the acts of corruption that have seriously affected the management of wildlife in the country. These accusations have damaged the image of Wilungula, the Congolese government and wildlife conservation efforts. It is now essential to strengthen the fight against corruption and cash trafficking to preserve biodiversity and restore confidence in the management of Congolese wildlife.