Mining in the Ituri Landscape: Challenges for Biodiversity Conservation

The area is home to 13 species of diurnal primates, the largest population of any African protected area. Ituri's biodiversity is characterized by 1500 plant species, inselberg micro-environments, and high biomass monodominant forest dominated by Gilbertodendrion dewevrei. The landscape also features clearings maintained by large mammals, known as Edos. Human livelihoods in Ituri are diverse, with approximately 300,000 people living in an area of around 40,000 square kilometers. The population includes Mbuti and Efe pygmies, hunter-gatherers, as well as Bantu tribes and over 80% subsistence farmers. Artisanal logging, mining, hunting, and fishing are also significant activities in the region. The presence of these human activities poses a threat to the landscape's biodiversity. Industrial mining concessions have been granted in the Ituri Landscape, with companies claiming highly productive mines that are expected to produce millions of ounces of gold. The geology of the area is characterized by greenstone belts with Banded Iron Formations, which host quartz veins rich in gold, iron, and diamonds. However, the expansion of industrial mining poses significant threats to the landscape's biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities. The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) has been working in the Ituri Landscape since 1985, initially conducting research and later establishing the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (OWR) in 1992. The WCS has also been involved in land use planning, livelihood activities, and a REDD Pilot Project in Mambasa, Ituri. The organization has been working to balance the needs of local communities with the need to protect the landscape's biodiversity. The Ituri Landscape is a complex and dynamic system, with multiple stakeholders and competing interests. The expansion of industrial mining, artisanal logging, and other human activities poses significant challenges for biodiversity conservation in the area. The WCS and other organizations are working to find solutions that balance the needs of local communities with the need to protect the landscape's unique biodiversity.