https://congo.wcs.org RSS feeds for WCS Congo 60 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26259/In-Ouesso-stakeholders-from-the-conservation-justice-and-civil-society-sectors-are-strengthening-their-cooperation-to-combat-wildlife-crime#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26259 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26259&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26259/In-Ouesso-stakeholders-from-the-conservation-justice-and-civil-society-sectors-are-strengthening-their-cooperation-to-combat-wildlife-crime OUESSO, Republic of Congo – May 28, 2026 – The Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), through its Counter Wildlife Trafficking (CWT) program, organized a workshop in Ouesso on May 27–28, 2026, focused on raising awareness and sharing experiences related to wildlife crime. Over the course of two days, public administrations, judicial authorities, defense and security forces, conservation organizations, and civil society representatives came together to strengthen cooperation among actors involved in combating wildlife trafficking. Faced with increasing pressure on biodiversity across the Congo Basin, the workshop aimed to foster dialogue, share field experiences, and improve coordination in addressing a form of crime that now extends far beyond environmental concerns. In northern Congo, where communities heavily depend on forest resources for their livelihoods, it remains essential to distinguish subsistence hunting conducted in compliance with regulations from wildlife crime. Wildlife crime includes activities such as poaching protected species, trafficking wildlife or wildlife products, and organized criminal networks supplying illicit national and international markets. “Wildlife crime is a concerning issue, just like other forms of organized crime such as drug trafficking, and represents a real threat on a global scale,” said Amour OMBI, CWT Coordinator at WCS Congo, emphasizing that wildlife crime directly impacts global biodiversity while generating significant illicit revenues. Throughout the discussions, participants addressed several key topics, including wildlife crime challenges in Congo, the legal framework governing wildlife offenses, challenges faced in anti-poaching efforts, and the connections between environmental crime, ecological loss, and financial crime. During his presentation on the links between wildlife crime, ecological loss, and anti-money laundering efforts, Igor Boris Ossette, Public Prosecutor at the Ouesso High Court, emphasized that wildlife crime forms part of a broader criminal system in which illicit profits, ecosystem destruction, and illegal financial networks mutually reinforce one another. He added that fighting wildlife crime, ecological destruction, and money laundering means addressing different dimensions of the same underlying problem. This collaborative approach lies at the heart of WCS’s Counter Wildlife Trafficking (CWT) program, which supports Congolese authorities in preventing, detecting, and prosecuting wildlife trafficking through intelligence gathering, capacity strengthening, and institutional partnerships. The results achieved demonstrate the importance of this cooperation. In 2025, the CWT team issued 27 intelligence-based alerts, strengthening surveillance, detection, and enforcement capacities related to wildlife crime. Joint efforts by Congolese authorities and their partners have also led to several major judicial successes. Among them is the landmark conviction handed down in 2019 against Mobanza Mobembo Gérard, alias “Guyvanho,” who received a 30-year prison sentence for attempted murder of forest rangers, trafficking ivory from poached elephants, possession of military weapons, and other charges. This case remains one of the clearest examples demonstrating that wildlife crime constitutes a form of organized crime that can result in exemplary prosecutions. At the end of the workshop, participants formulated several recommendations aimed at further strengthening the fight against wildlife crime. These included improving information sharing between institutions, enhancing operational coordination among stakeholders, continuing awareness efforts, strengthening technical capacities, and improving enforcement of existing legal frameworks. Through this initiative, WCS reaffirms its commitment alongside the Government of the Republic of Congo and its partners to sustainably strengthen biodiversity protection across the Congo Basin and combat the networks threatening wildlife. Mon, 01 Jun 2026 10:54:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26259 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26227/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-April-2026#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26227 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26227&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26227/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-April-2026 April 2026 was marked by numerous initiatives benefiting local communities. In Bomassa, 89 schoolchildren took part in an educational forest excursion to learn about the park’s biodiversity, while health campaigns, community consultations, and agricultural activities engaged hundreds of beneficiaries. At the same time, tourism development and infrastructure projects continued to advance, reinforcing the vision of Nouabalé-Ndoki as a model of conservation built on science, community well-being, and the sustainable stewardship of natural heritage. Tue, 26 May 2026 07:51:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26227 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26229/The-WCS-is-stepping-up-health-surveillance-and-the-prevention-of-zoonotic-diseases-in-Congo#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26229 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26229&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26229/The-WCS-is-stepping-up-health-surveillance-and-the-prevention-of-zoonotic-diseases-in-Congo From February to April 2026, WCS Congo’s One Health Program continued its efforts to strengthen health surveillance, institutional collaboration, and community awareness of the risks associated with disease transmission between wildlife, domestic animals, and human populations. One of the quarter’s major achievements was the signing of a technical cooperation agreement between WCS and the Directorate General of Livestock. This partnership aims to enhance zoonotic disease surveillance, improve the safety of animal-source food products, and promote livestock farming as a sustainable alternative to bushmeat consumption. The initiative reflects an integrated One Health approach, where biodiversity conservation directly contributes to public health and sustainable development. In the field, the wildlife mortality surveillance network investigated five wildlife carcasses, including three elephants, one gorilla, and one buffalo. Laboratory analyses confirmed a case of anthrax in a forest elephant, while all other samples tested negative for several priority diseases, including Ebola and mpox. These data are essential for the early detection of health threats and for guiding prevention and response measures. The quarter was also marked by extensive awareness-raising activities. In the Likouala region, WCS teams visited 23 villages and reached more than 1,100 people with information on zoonotic disease risks and preventive practices. Additional training sessions were conducted in Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park for field staff, strengthening knowledge of hygiene measures and reducing the risk of disease transmission between people and wildlife. Fri, 22 May 2026 08:24:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26229 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26190/Restoring-the-gallery-forests-of-Likouala-aux-Herbes#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26190 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26190&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26190/Restoring-the-gallery-forests-of-Likouala-aux-Herbes In April, our teams at the Lac Télé Community Reserve launched a pilot project to protect and restore gallery forests along the Likouala-aux-Herbes corridor. This collaborative initiative brings together community development, research, logistics, and forest restoration expertise, while also valuing local community knowledge. Through this integrated approach, nearly three hectares of savanna will gradually be restored using native tree species adapted to the area’s ecological conditions. Gallery forests are essential for ecological balance: they protect waterways, reduce erosion and bushfires, support fish breeding habitats, and help maintain river navigability for local communities. Fri, 15 May 2026 07:13:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26190 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26192/Small-scale-fishing-for-sharks-and-rays-between-marine-biodiversity-and-a-threat-to-populations#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26192 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26192&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26192/Small-scale-fishing-for-sharks-and-rays-between-marine-biodiversity-and-a-threat-to-populations Between 2018 and 2023, WCS teams, in partnership with the University of Exeter, conducted extensive monitoring of ray and shark landings from artisanal fisheries in Songolo, Pointe-Noire. This work led to the publication, in 2025, of an in-depth analysis of the dynamics of this fishery. More than 40 species of elasmobranchs were identified, highlighting both the richness and high productivity of Congolese waters. Among them, six species accounted for most of the catches, including the scalloped hammerhead shark (Sphyrna lewini), which is classified as critically endangered. The findings also reveal a concerning trend: most of the individuals caught are juveniles, threatening the renewal of populations. This situation is further exacerbated by the absence of specific national regulations governing the capture of certain ray and shark species. While this fishery remains an essential source of income and protein for many communities, its expansion — driven by profitability and resource abundance — is leading to high and likely unsustainable extraction levels, posing a real risk to food security in coastal areas. Sat, 09 May 2026 07:33:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26192 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26171/SWM-Congo-Strengthening-the-Legal-Framework-for-Sustainable-Wildlife-Management#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26171 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26171&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26171/SWM-Congo-Strengthening-the-Legal-Framework-for-Sustainable-Wildlife-Management As part of the implementation of the Sustainable Wildlife Management (SWM) Programme in the Republic of Congo, a presentation session held on May 5, 2026 in Brazzaville brought together key institutional and technical partners to review progress in the programme’s legal component. Jointly implemented by FAO and WCS, the SWM Programme aims to reconcile biodiversity conservation, food security, and improved livelihoods for local communities. In the Republic of Congo, this approach notably relies on strengthening the legal and institutional framework governing wildlife and natural resource management. The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on work carried out since 2022, including the development of the national legal platform “Legal Hub,” established in collaboration with the Ministry of Forest Economy and various stakeholders. These analyses have supported strategic processes such as the revision of Law No. 37-2008 on wildlife and protected areas, as well as the development of implementing regulations to facilitate its enforcement. Participants were also informed about the upcoming launch of Legal Hub 2.0, an enhanced version of the platform scheduled for June 2026. This new iteration adopts a more comprehensive, modular, and operational approach, offering an expanded set of legal diagnostic tools to help identify and prioritize reforms in line with national priorities. It also introduces improved functionalities, including a more user-friendly interface and analytical tools designed to facilitate the use of legal data. Beyond the technical presentations, the session provided a platform for dialogue aimed at strengthening partner engagement and identifying an initial list of priority sectors for the next cycle of legal analyses, planned from June to December 2026. Through this initiative, the SWM Programme reaffirms its commitment to supporting public policies that promote sustainable wildlife management, in alignment with conservation, health, and development challenges in the Republic of Congo. Wed, 06 May 2026 10:21:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26171 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26095/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-march-2026#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26095 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26095&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26095/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-march-2026 The March 2026 newsletter highlights continued progress in conservation, community engagement, and research activities at Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park. Environmental education remained a priority, with school visits, Pangolin Day celebrations, and outreach activities strengthening awareness among young people about protected species and anti-poaching efforts. Community initiatives also combined health and social mobilization, including STI awareness campaigns and activities for International Women’s Rights Day, reinforcing social cohesion and women’s engagement in Bomassa and Makao. Capacity building was supported through ArcGIS Pro training for staff across multiple departments. On the research and monitoring side, important wildlife observations were recorded, including gorilla births and group dynamics, as well as ongoing chimpanzee monitoring in Goualougo. The Elephant Listening Project finalized the verification of acoustic data from Mbeli, while the Wildlife Health Program investigated an elephant mortality, with test results ruling out Ebola and anthrax. Tourism and infrastructure development advanced with the renovation of the Wali Bai lookout tower, supported by Expedia, alongside broader improvements to park facilities. These efforts aim to strengthen ecotourism capacity while involving local communities. Meanwhile, park protection efforts led to the arrest of nine poachers and reinforced coordination among partners to improve threat management. The month was also marked by the loss of two long-serving staff members, whose contributions to the park were acknowledged with respect and gratitude. Fri, 17 Apr 2026 09:19:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26095 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26078/Fixed-checkpoint-PK38-4-years-of-surveillance#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26078 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26078&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26078/Fixed-checkpoint-PK38-4-years-of-surveillance Since 2021, the PK38 checkpoint on the Epéna–Impfondo road has played a key role in monitoring the transport of wildlife products. Over four years, 547 seizures were recorded, representing nearly 5.9 tons of biomass and involving 16 species. The dwarf crocodile accounts for almost half of all seizures, both in number and volume. Between 2021 and 2024, the total number of seizures dropped significantly (from 191 to 103), along with an overall decrease in biomass intercepted. While this trend may suggest reduced hunting pressure, it could also reflect shifts in trafficking routes or attempts to bypass controls. These findings highlight ongoing challenges in governance and awareness, particularly the limited understanding and enforcement of hunting regulations. Strengthening outreach, control measures, and community engagement remains essential to improve wildlife protection. Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:36:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26078 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26042/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-february-2026#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26042 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26042&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26042/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-february-2026 February 2026 was marked by a concerning signal: a significant drop in the Ndoki River’s water level, likely linked to climate change, highlighting increasing pressure on the park’s ecosystems. On the health front, a mission from the Ouesso health district carried out large-scale tuberculosis screening and vaccination campaigns in Bomassa, with reassuring preliminary results. At the same time, 170 medical consultations were provided, confirming the park’s essential role in supporting access to healthcare for local communities. Community conservation efforts continued to advance through the structuring of hunters into governance groups, the strengthening of grievance mechanisms, and ongoing human-wildlife coexistence initiatives in Kabo. Awareness-raising remains key, with 185 students engaged during World Pangolin Day activities. On the biodiversity side, several notable observations were recorded: integration of new individuals into a gorilla group at Mbeli Bai, a rare predation behavior observed in a chimpanzee at Goualougo, and continued monitoring of group dynamics at Mondika. Research and surveillance activities also continued, including acoustic analyses to better identify poaching pressure zones and health investigations confirming the absence of Ebola but traces of anthrax on an elephant carcass. Finally, the month saw important institutional developments, with the appointment of a new park director and strategic meetings held at the Tri-National Sangha level. Ongoing discussions around tourism development are also opening new opportunities for sustainable valorization of the area. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 07:59:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26042 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26017/Is-the-Congo-Basin-drying-before-our-eyes#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=26017 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=26017&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/26017/Is-the-Congo-Basin-drying-before-our-eyes The silverback Metetele crosses the Ndoki River (Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park) with unusual ease.  Once deeper and more difficult to navigate, the Ndoki now appears significantly less flooded. This field observation is supported by rainfall data recorded at Mondika, showing a gradual decline in precipitation over the past decade. A scientific study published in 2025 confirms this trend, highlighting a drying pattern in the central Congo Basin, driven in part by the warming of the tropical Atlantic and the weakening of key atmospheric systems. Beyond the observation lies a critical challenge: anticipation. In an ecosystem where water shapes every balance, sustained changes in rainfall are redefining the interactions between forests, wildlife, and human communities. These images capture a transformation that remains subtle—but is already measurable. Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:41:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:26017 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25977/Lac-Tele-Community-Reserve-January-February-2026-Newsletter#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25977 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25977&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25977/Lac-Tele-Community-Reserve-January-February-2026-Newsletter During the first two months of the year, the Reserve’s teams stepped up their awareness-raising activities in 14 villages, engaging 743 participants on the protection of wildlife, current legislation and the risks associated with zoonotic diseases. These discussions aim to strengthen the communities’ commitment to the sustainable management of natural resources. At the same time, local development activities are continuing with technical monitoring of cocoa plantations and nurseries in ten villages, in order to support producers and assess the redensified plantations. A new mission is planned in the northern and central areas of the reserve to strengthen this agricultural support. On the ecological front, the waterbird census conducted on the Likouala-aux-Herbes and its tributaries identified 5,208 individuals belonging to 44 species, confirming the importance of the reserve as a habitat and corridor for birdlife. The rare white-faced whistling duck was observed again in 2026. Teams are also continuing their operational efforts: refresher training for eco-guards, support for community governance, and infrastructure improvement works at the Épéna base. A temporary holding pool has also been set up to accommodate dwarf crocodiles seized during anti-poaching operations prior to their release. These initial activities in 2026 confirm the central role of the Lac Télé Reserve in the participatory conservation of the Congo Basin’s ecosystems. Fri, 13 Mar 2026 10:19:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25977 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25924/WCS-and-the-Directorate-General-for-Livestock-Join-Forces-to-Strengthen-Animal-and-Zoonotic-Disease-Surveillance#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25924 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25924&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25924/WCS-and-the-Directorate-General-for-Livestock-Join-Forces-to-Strengthen-Animal-and-Zoonotic-Disease-Surveillance On February 24, 2026, in Brazzaville, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), represented by its Country Director, Richard Malonga, and the General Directorate of Livestock (DGE), represented by its Director General, Dr. N’Kaya-Tobi, signed a Technical Collaboration Agreement. Concluded for a period of five (5) years, this agreement formalizes a framework for collaboration in two specific areas: the surveillance of emerging and re-emerging zoonotic diseases in the veterinary sector, and aspects related to the sanitary safety of food products derived from wildlife. At the interface between wildlife, domestic animals, and human populations, health risks require close coordination and regular information sharing. The signed protocol specifically aims to establish this exchange mechanism in order to prevent certain diseases that may affect both humans and domestic animals. Within this framework, the two institutions commit to maintaining open and regular communication on all matters related to animal health. They will work jointly to develop a communication protocol enabling effective interventions in the event of epizootic outbreaks affecting wildlife or domestic animals. They also intend to strengthen their operational and scientific capacities through reciprocal technical and scientific training opportunities. The collaboration further provides for the promotion and development of livestock farming in order to help reduce local communities’ dependence on wild meat. Subject to the availability of the necessary resources, WCS will mobilize its professional network as well as its community-based surveillance system for unusual wildlife events—particularly cases of morbidity or suspected mortality—to collect biological samples for diagnostic purposes. WCS will also use the network of the Private Community-Based Veterinary Service (SVPP) model as an alert mechanism in cases of suspected mortality among domestic animals, and will work with the DGE to integrate wildlife health surveillance data into the national animal health surveillance system. For its part, the DGE will provide general support to activities related to wildlife health surveillance as well as awareness campaigns on wildlife-related zoonoses. It will facilitate the administrative and logistical procedures necessary for the implementation of activities of common interest and may, when needed, support the process of obtaining the permits required for the export or transfer of biological material, in strict compliance with applicable regulations. The protocol also defines the modalities of collaboration in the areas of training, joint research, and scientific publications. It specifies that both institutions act as independent partners engaged in an exclusively technical partnership and sets out provisions relating to data confidentiality and intellectual property rights over the results produced. Through the signing of this agreement, WCS and the DGE consolidate a structured framework for cooperation aimed at improving coordination in animal health surveillance and the prevention of animal and zoonotic diseases in the Republic of Congo. Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25924 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25908/Live-African-Fruit-Bats-in-Congo-a-lucrative-value-chain-facing-zoonotic-risks#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25908 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25908&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25908/Live-African-Fruit-Bats-in-Congo-a-lucrative-value-chain-facing-zoonotic-risks At the first conference of the Congo Basin Science Initiative in Brazzaville, WCS Congo’s One Health Program shared results from a study conducted in Brazzaville and Ouesso with the Sustainable Wildlife Management Programme. Based on interviews with 79 actors across the value chain, hunters, wholesalers, vendors, restaurant owners, and consumers, the study reveals that the live fruit bat trade is a structured and economically significant system. In Brazzaville, total revenues can reach approximately 7–8 million FCFA for restaurant owners, around 7 million FCFA for wholesalers, and about 5.5 million FCFA for vendors. In Ouesso, revenues are lower (generally a few hundred thousand FCFA) but remain vital for local livelihoods. The research also highlights a critical gap in zoonotic risk perception. While nearly all hunters and wholesalers report awareness of disease risks, understanding and perceived vulnerability remain very low among vendors, restaurant owners, and consumers. These findings stress the importance of strengthening awareness, prevention measures, and the full integration of the One Health approach to safeguard both economic stability and public health in the Republic of Congo. Wed, 25 Feb 2026 14:08:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25976/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-January-2026#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25976 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25976&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25976/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-January-2026 January 2026 in Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park: a year that begins under auspicious circumstances. The month was marked by several encouraging events for biodiversity, with two chimpanzee births in Goualougo and a newborn gorilla in Mondika, demonstrating the vitality of the populations monitored in the park. Teams also continued their efforts to reduce conflicts between communities and elephants, notably by reinforcing the electric fence in Kabo with the support of farmers. At the community level, 249 free medical consultations were carried out in Bomassa and Makao, while 20 elderly people benefited from the social assistance programme. Education remains a pillar of local actions: monitoring of 16 scholarship students, activities of the Ebobo nature club and awareness-raising in schools, particularly on World Pangolin Day. Research and monitoring activities are continuing intensively. In Mbeli Baï, nearly 180 hours of elephant presence were recorded, illustrating the ecological importance of the site. In Goualougo, researchers accumulated 420 hours of chimpanzee monitoring at the beginning of the year. At the same time, protection of the park remains active: 160 days of patrols were carried out, covering 1,473 km² of forest, with the seizure of poaching equipment. The park also continues to welcome visitors, with 21 tourists in January, whilst continuing infrastructure works and awareness-raising activities on the zoonotic risks associated with the consumption of wildlife. Between conservation, research and community engagement, the start of this year confirms the commitment of teams and partners to the long-term preservation of Ndoki’s unique ecosystems. Tue, 10 Feb 2026 10:11:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25976 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25850/Conservation-and-local-development-the-Lac-Tele-Community-Reserve-takes-stock-of-community-actions-in-Bouanela#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25850 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25850&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25850/Conservation-and-local-development-the-Lac-Tele-Community-Reserve-takes-stock-of-community-actions-in-Bouanela At Bouanela, the Lac Télé Community Reserve takes stock of community actions and strengthens local governance through a dialogue workshop between the Coordination and the Local Management Committee. A participatory workshop bringing together communities from the 27 villages of the Lac Télé Community Reserve made it possible to assess actions undertaken, adopt new recommendations, and define community management priorities for 2026, with the support of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). BOUANELA, Republic of the Congo, December 7, 2025 — On December 6 and 7, 2025, the multipurpose hall of the Bouanela sub-prefecture hosted the second dialogue workshop between the Coordination and the Local Management Committee (LMC) of the Lac Télé Community Reserve (LTCR). Organized at the initiative of the LMC with financial support from WCS, the meeting brought together nearly 150 participants from the 27 villages of the Reserve. The workshop aimed to assess the implementation of previous recommendations, strengthen local governance, and plan priority actions for 2026, within a participatory community-based management approach. Discussions provided a detailed review of actions carried out over the past year, including: the revitalization of Natural Resource Management Committees (NRMCs) in eight villages of the Reserve; community awareness-raising on the mini fishing charter and best practices for managing fishery resources; the establishment of community fishing surveillance brigades in eight villages; the electrification of 27 localities using 70 solar streetlights, distributed across the districts of Bouanela and Epéna; the distribution of school kits to 27 primary schools, reaching more than 4,400 pupils in and around the Reserve; the clearing of 20 kilometers of the Epéna–Ngounda road to improve accessibility; support to more than 200 cocoa producers as part of the development of income-generating activities; the implementation of several scientific studies, including monitoring of ungulates, small monkeys, waterbirds, hippopotamus counts, and gorilla monitoring. “These actions reflect the commitment of communities and partners to reconciling biodiversity conservation with improved living conditions,” emphasized Ghislain Magnomele, President of the Executive Board of the Local Management Committee. During the workshop, participants also reviewed the progress of the Simple Management Plans (SMPs) and the Reserve Management Plan, developed through a participatory approach integrating traditional rules, rational use zones, and strict protection zones. “Community-based management of the Reserve relies on the effective involvement of local populations in decision-making and in monitoring natural resources,” recalled Fabien Orchidet Nzolani Silaho, Warden of the Lac Télé Community Reserve. At the end of the workshop, thirteen recommendations were adopted, focusing in particular on: combating bushfires; continuing the establishment of surveillance brigades; strengthening awareness-raising on fishing, hunting, and the environment; crop diversification and support for food security; improving communication and the visibility of community institutions. In closing the workshop, the Sub-Prefect of the Bouanela district, Norbert Liboukou, called on all stakeholders to translate these recommendations into concrete actions to ensure the long-term protection of the biodiversity of the Lac Télé Community Reserve. Mon, 02 Feb 2026 08:42:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25850 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25838/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-December-2025#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25838 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25838&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25838/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-December-2025 Conservation efforts, research, community development. Discover the news from the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park. Wed, 28 Jan 2026 11:26:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25838 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25821/Lac-Tele-Community-Reserve-November-December-2025-Newsletter#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25821 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25821&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25821/Lac-Tele-Community-Reserve-November-December-2025-Newsletter Community development, research, conservation efforts: discover the news from the Lac Télé Community Reserve. Wed, 14 Jan 2026 10:43:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25821 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25819/An-exceptional-birth-scene-was-observed-among-the-gorillas-of-Mbeli-Bai#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25819 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25819&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25819/An-exceptional-birth-scene-was-observed-among-the-gorillas-of-Mbeli-Bai During a routine observation session at Mbeli Bai, researchers were monitoring Mowgli’s gorilla group as usual. All individuals had been identified and the group was moving calmly through the clearing when an unusual behavior caught the team’s attention: an adult female, Mogwai, briefly separated herself at the edge of the bai. Moments later, Mogwai rejoined the group carrying a newborn in her arms. With the umbilical cord still visible, she gently cleaned it, confirming that a birth had just taken place on site. This rare and precious observation, documented by our researchers, is an encouraging sign for the long-term monitoring and conservation of gorillas at Mbeli Bai. Fri, 09 Jan 2026 10:24:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25819 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25799/After-8-Years-Female-Elephant-Af221-Returns-to-Mbeli-Bai#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25799 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25799&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25799/After-8-Years-Female-Elephant-Af221-Returns-to-Mbeli-Bai More than eight years after her last visit, a female elephant has been recorded again at Mbeli Bai. Thanks to the female identification logbook established in 2017, researchers were able to formally identify her as Af221. No sightings of this female had been recorded since that date, representing an absence of more than eight years. She returned accompanied by her two young, a juvenile and a calf. This sighting highlights the essential importance of long-term monitoring of elephants at Mbeli Bai. Individual identification and data collection over several years provide a better understanding of the elephants' loyalty to this site, their movements, reproduction, and survival.   Tue, 30 Dec 2025 09:45:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25799 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25802/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-november-2025#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25802 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25802&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25802/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-november-2025 Conservation efforts, research, community development. Discover the news from the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park. Fri, 19 Dec 2025 10:08:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25802 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25703/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-October-2025#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25703 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25703&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25703/Nouabale-Ndoki-National-Park-newsletter-October-2025 Conservation efforts, research, community development. Discover the news from the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park. Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:16:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25703 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25758/First-Scientific-Inventory-of-Reptiles-and-Amphibians-Conducted-at-Lac-Tele-Republic-of-Congo#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25758 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25758&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25758/First-Scientific-Inventory-of-Reptiles-and-Amphibians-Conducted-at-Lac-Tele-Republic-of-Congo In the heart of the flooded forest of northeastern Republic of Congo, the Lac Télé is one of the planet's last natural mysteries. Terre Sauvage magazine devoted a lengthy article to it, as this almost inaccessible site is better known for its raw beauty than for its biodiversity. The author, Thomas Nicolon, recounts the human and scientific adventure undertaken in 2024 in the Lac Télé Community Reserve by a team of scientists who carried out the very first inventory of reptiles and amphibians there. This mission, organized by the Wildlife Conservation Society in collaboration with local communities, aimed to census the region's reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:51:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25758 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25735/Belem-Call-to-Action-Nouabale-Ndoki-and-Lac-Tele-at-the-Heart-of-the-Congo-Basin#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25735 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25735&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25735/Belem-Call-to-Action-Nouabale-Ndoki-and-Lac-Tele-at-the-Heart-of-the-Congo-Basin At the heart of the Congo Basin, Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park and the Lac Télé Community Reserve are directly concerned by the new Belém Call to Action, launched to strengthen the protection and sustainable management of Central Africa’s forests. WCS welcomes this collective commitment bringing together governments, technical partners and donors around a shared ambition: safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Congo Basin while supporting the communities who depend on these unique landscapes. Fri, 21 Nov 2025 13:12:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25735 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25720/Lac-Tele-Community-Reserve-September-October-2025-Newsletter#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25720 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25720&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25720/Lac-Tele-Community-Reserve-September-October-2025-Newsletter Community development, research, conservation efforts: discover the news from the Lac Télé Community Reserve. Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:24:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25720 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25766/One-Health-Approach-Strengthening-Collaboration-to-Prevent-Zoonotic-Diseases-in-Congo#Comments 0 https://congo.wcs.org/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=24908&ModuleID=55067&ArticleID=25766 https://congo.wcs.org:443/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=25766&PortalID=255&TabID=24908 https://congo.wcs.org/Newsroom/ID/25766/One-Health-Approach-Strengthening-Collaboration-to-Prevent-Zoonotic-Diseases-in-Congo “More than 70% of emerging infectious diseases originate in wildlife,” said Dademanao Pissang Tchangai, @‌FAO representative in Congo, at the opening of the workshop to strengthen collaboration among “One Health” actors. Led by WCS, the workshop brought together 40 representative of veterinary services, public health, administrative authorities, public institutions, as well as civil society, NGOs, research institutions, and technical and financial partners. Organized as part of the SWM (Sustainable Wildlife Management) program, the workshop provided an opportunity to learn and reflect collectively on the best strategies for working together to prevent zoonoses. A joint action plan for surveillance and prevention and the intensification of community awareness campaigns on zoonotic risks will be undertaken. Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:31:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:25766