Preventing Bushmeat Poaching in Africa's Forests

Summary

This project supports reserve rangers protecting wildlife such as elephants, chimpanzees and okapi in the Ituri Forest of the DR Congo which are being illegally hunted for the ivory and bushmeat trade

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

Poachers are illegally hunting elephants, okapi, chimpanzees, monkeys and antelopes for bushmeat and ivory in the Ituri Forest of the DR Congo. Unsustainable hunting decimates wildlife populations and ever growing bushmeat and ivory markets are spurring illegal hunting. Protecting wildlife is challenging for wildlife rangers because the terrain is challenging and dangerous because poachers are often armed with automatic weapons.

How will this project solve this problem?

Rangers patrol the Okapi Wildlife Reserve and remove snares, arrest poachers, destroy hunting camps, and confiscate illegal bushmeat and ivory. They work with local villagers to create an understanding of the value of the forest and wildlife.

Potential Long Term Impact

If the forest is intact and the wildlife is protected a significant ecosystem is sustained and intact for our future. The value of tropical forests and wildlife is continually being reevaluated in the face of the challenges of global warming.

Project Message

I care about my species of focus because of the pressure on their habitat (poaching, logging) despite the fact of being protected by the law. My wish is to see local communities protect these species.
- Jean Paul M'monga Kiete, Okapi Wildlife Reserve Ranger, ICCN

Resources

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