Description:
Virunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Virunga is the continent’s most biologically diverse protected area and a national park embarking on an ambitious development programme known as the “Virunga Alliance”.
Situated in a region which has been deeply impacted by the effects of war and armed conflict for over 20 years, Virunga is currently protected by a dedicated team of 760+ Rangers. These local men and women go through intensive training, risking their lives on a daily basis to safeguard the Park’s exceptional wildlife, including the last of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas.
Alongside this essential conservation work, the Park is committed to supporting local communities. Virunga has a vision for responsibly harnessing the Park’s natural resources to create new opportunities for the four million people that live within a day’s walk of its borders.
Species Protected: Mountain Gorila, Okapi, Elephant
Country: Democratic Republic Of Congo
Legal Status Gobernmental Organization
Tax Deductible: Yes
Area Conserved: 214,748 Km²
Organisms Protected per Month: —
Exact Location: View on Google Maps
Social Media: Visit Page
Mission:
Virunga National Park is a beacon of hope for biodiversity in Central Africa. It is dedicated to protecting endangered species and restoring natural habitats. The park safeguards iconic wildlife and nurtures ecosystems through innovative conservation programs while promoting sustainable coexistence with local communities. These efforts are critical in preserving the region’s unique natural heritage for future generations
Actions:
Mountain Gorillas
Mountain gorillas are among the world's rarest primates, and Virunga National Park plays a pivotal role in their protection. Regular monitoring, ranger-led security operations, and community education programs have contributed to increasing their numbers and safeguarding their fragile habitats.
Eastern Lowland Gorillas
Virunga National Park is home to just eight Eastern Lowland gorillas, making their conservation efforts critical. Through targeted habitat restoration, anti-poaching patrols, and close monitoring of this fragile population, the park aims to protect these gorillas from extinction. Community engagement programs further enhance local support for conservation, ensuring a collaborative approach to safeguarding these rare primates and their environment.
Ishasha Lions
Lions are vital to the park’s ecological balance, yet their numbers have dwindled due to human-wildlife conflict. Virunga's conservation team uses innovative solutions, including tracking technologies and community engagement, to protect lions while fostering coexistence between predators and nearby communities.
Use of Donations:
In food and medication for the rehabilitation center, reforestation efforts, sallary of the rangers
