A emblematic magazine, Fatshimétrie, highlights this week a highly symbolic anniversary: Virunga National Park celebrates its 99th year of existence. Founded in 1925, this natural gem located in North Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has since attracted global attention for its exceptional biodiversity.
Despite almost a century of preservation, the park faces unprecedented challenges that endanger its environmental balance. The ongoing threats and conflicts in the region have heavily impacted the authorities’ ability to ensure the protection of this natural reserve, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Throughout the decades, the park’s guards and managers have shown remarkable resistance and resilience, not hesitating to risk their lives to safeguard this unique wilderness. Methode Uhoze, the director of external relations at Virunga National Park, emphasizes the importance of their dedication and calls for the mobilization of all to ensure a better future for this Congolese national treasure.
As the park prepares to celebrate its centenary next year, conservation issues are becoming increasingly urgent. The occupation of certain key areas by rebel groups seriously compromises protection efforts and weakens the authority of nature conservation organizations.
In this complex context, it is imperative for the entire Congolese society, as well as its leaders, to mobilize to ensure the sustainability of Virunga National Park. This exceptional natural heritage is not only a guarantor of biodiversity but also represents a lever for economic and social development for local communities.
Therefore, in this year of celebrations, let us renew our commitment to the preservation of Virunga National Park. Because beyond its 99 years of existence, a sustainable and prosperous future for the region is at stake. Let us be the guardians of this precious nature, for present and future generations.
Links relevantes:
– Springboks’ packed schedule for the 2024 rugby season
– RDC’s boxing leopards’ resounding victory in the Mandela African Boxing Cup
– Hostage-taking in Mali: Urgent concerted action required
– External article on Virunga Park’s 99th anniversary celebration