For at least the past twenty years, anthropologists have been describing the increasing importance of local participation in conservation programs. There is ample evidence suggesting that a lack of income opportunities forces local people to exploit the environments around them to meet their basic needs. In DRC, where 80 percent of the population lives on less than $1.25 per day, wildlife and their habitats are especially vulnerable.

Integrating human development at all levels of conservation is a win for people and wildlife. From transforming illegal hunters into trackers who assist with biological surveys and tourist treks in protected areas, to training local youngsters as park rangers who educate their communities on the benefits of protecting biodiversity, these efforts produce truly positive results. It is a privilege to witness this integration of human development in AWF’s approach to conservation, especially in a place like Djolu.

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