Closing Down Illegal Mines Protects Okapi Habitat

After a three month amnesty period declared in August of 2014 by Governor Saidi of Orientale Province, a special force of ICCN guards and Congolese military is moving through the Reserve shutting down illegally operated gold mines.

From November 14 – 21, Okapi Conservation Project (OCP) educators taught soldiers about the expected “Code of Conduct” in dealing with human rights issues and interacting with local communities. Topics also included background information about conservation laws and the purpose of the Reserve to protect wildlife and habitat.  To read more click here.