In 2025, WCS Congo combined wildlife protection, scientific research, community engagement and One Health to advance conservation across its landscapes. Despite the withdrawal of U.S. government funding and a major programme restructuring, priority conservation activities continued.
Across the Ndoki-Likouala landscape, 745 patrols contributed to the destruction of more than 200 illegal hunting camps, the seizure of over 900 rounds of ammunition and around 100 weapons, and the apprehension of 379 individuals. Cross-border cooperation and technology-based monitoring were also strengthened.
Scientific programmes generated more than 9,000 hours of observations. At Lac Télé, research focused on gorillas, hippopotamuses, waterbirds and other wildlife, while a new 2026–2035 research strategy was developed.
Community initiatives supported agriculture, beekeeping, livestock, fisheries, education and crop protection. More than 5,700 children benefited from environmental education or school support.
One Health activities included more than 3,700 health scans of great apes, 516 biological samples and 11 awareness missions reaching 5,161 people. In the marine environment, research highlighted increasing pressure on sharks and rays, with 41% of analysed catches belonging to critically endangered species.
These achievements highlight the need to strengthen partnerships, community governance, diversified financing, science and technology to address emerging conservation challenges in Congo.
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