Illegal Gold Mining Threatens Okapi Wildlife Reserve in Ituri Province
During a workshop organized by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) to present their research findings, it was revealed that over 70 gold mining sites are operating illegally within the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (RFO) in Mambasa territory, Ituri province.
Rodrigues Kiluka, Coordinator of stakeholders in the RFO mining industry, highlighted that this illicit gold mining is contributing significantly to the destruction of this protected area. He also condemned the involvement of certain militias in these illegal activities.
Mining stakeholders, who are initiating projects to protect the reserve, have expressed their concerns over this alarming situation.
They are urging the provincial government to implement necessary measures to safeguard this critical habitat.
The research also indicates that foreign entities are facilitating this illegal exploitation by manipulating armed groups for their own interests.
To address this issue, the government is urged to enhance the traceability of gold to protect this UNESCO World Heritage site.
The illegal gold mining in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve not only threatens the biodiversity of the area but also undermines efforts to preserve the natural heritage of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Immediate and decisive action is needed to combat these destructive practices and protect the reserve for future generations.
