‘I escaped death a lot of times’: one man’s lifelong work protecting gorillas and communities in Congo

What Happened

Dominique Bikaba, a conservationist in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is dedicated to protecting gorillas and supporting local communities in the Kahuzi-Biega National Park. His work is particularly challenging due to the ongoing political instability and conflict in the region.

Why It Matters

Bikaba's efforts are crucial not only for the conservation of the eastern lowland gorilla, a species facing extinction, but also for the rights of Indigenous peoples who have been displaced from their ancestral lands. His story underscores the importance of integrating human rights into conservation efforts.

The Bigger Picture

The situation in the DRC reflects broader global challenges where conservation and human rights intersect. As wildlife habitats are threatened by both human activity and conflict, the need for sustainable solutions that benefit both nature and local communities becomes increasingly urgent.