Evacuation of Mining Camps – Changing the Dynamic for Conservation

Evacuation of illegal mining camps inside the Reserve was singled out during the 2013 Mambasa meeting called by Governor Saidi as the most important action that will help restore security in the Reserve and protect wildlife and forests from exploitation.

Like other endangered protected areas in DR Congo, the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (OWR) went through a troubled period due to insecurity and the invasion of the Reserve by illegal miners, uncontrolled immigration, illegal poaching, and resource extractions perpetuated by various armed militias.

Mining Camp Evacuees from Okapi Wildlife Reserve[/caption]Among the nearly 70 mining camps which were illegally occupied after the June 24, 2012 attack and subsequent destabilization of the region, ICCN and partners targeted closing the seven biggest camps where the total number of miners was estimated to be around 20,000. Most of the miners came from cities outside the Reserve, and closing the camps does not involve removing local people. To read more click here.