The Virunga National Park, located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is one of the most emblematic natural spaces in the African continent. Founded in 1925, it harbors exceptional biodiversity and is the last refuge of the mountain gorillas, a species in critical danger of extinction.
However, what should be a wildlife sanctuary has become a scene of conflict, where armed groups, poachers, and illegal exploiters vie for control of its resources.
Armed conflicts and loss of biodiversity
More than 240 park rangers have died in two decades defending the park from groups like FDLR, Mai-Mai, and M23.
The presence of paramilitary groups such as FDLR, M23, and Mai-Mai has turned the park into a high-risk zone. These actors seek to control resources like wood, minerals, and strategic routes, directly affecting the fauna.
In September 2025, the death of nine mountain gorillas was documented, including Senkwekwe, a silverback alpha male, and seven females. The occupation of over 50% of the forest by M23 represents a constant threat to the ecosystem’s stability.
Mountain gorillas face many dangers and struggle for their survival.
Multiple threats to a fragile species
Gorillas face habitat loss, poaching, human diseases, and low reproduction rates.
- Deforestation: Logging for agriculture, charcoal, and human expansion
- Accidental hunting: Traps intended for other animals and trade of ape meat
- Diseases: Vulnerability to human viruses like polio, Ebola, and tuberculosis
- Political conflicts: Instability hindering conservation efforts
- Slow reproduction: Each population loss takes generations to recover
Rangers: silent heroes of conservation
They patrol, rescue, dismantle traps, and document fauna amidst the violence.
Despite the risks, the rangers of Virunga continue their daily work: they protect injured or orphaned gorillas, dismantle illegal traps, and monitor biodiversity.
Their work has been crucial for the largest population of mountain gorillas to keep surviving, even amidst war.
Conservation in times of conflict
International and community collaboration has led to progress, but the challenge remains monumental.
Thanks to partnerships with international organizations and the involvement of local communities, advancements have been made in gorilla protection. However, the situation remains fragile.
Conservation in Virunga not only involves protecting a species, but also defending a symbol of hope, resilience, and ecological balance in one of the regions most affected by violence.
