Virunga Initiates Community Development Projects in Mangina

Following a thorough selection process, the town of Mangina was recently announced as the site for an ambitious new project in the region of Beni. More than 1,500 community members gathered on Tuesday, September 10th to usher in the Park-sanctioned initiative, which aims to sustainably develop the town and surrounding region.

Representing a new era for the conflict-affected area, the official development of an economic zone in Mangina will offer many commercial and security benefits to the local community. Plans include the installation of a modern oil press, designed to enhance the local sustainable palm oil production industry. In collaboration with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC), the project will oversee the construction of a security operating base aimed at providing better protection to residents against attacks from local militia.

Local communities in and around Virunga National Park are some of the world’s most vulnerable, making an increased security presence vital for stability, sustainable development, and individual peace of mind.

The project was made possible thanks to funding from the European Union. Over 4 hectares have already been prepared for this project – the result of a joint effort between Virunga National Park, local authorities, and the local community – with the preparation phase set to last around three months. Among those involved in the event were the Bishop Melchisédec Sikuli of the Butembo-Beni district, and the Mayor of Mangina, Rocky Muvunga.

This initiative follows the successful local-development and security-enhancement model that was recently implemented in Mutwanga. Overall, it is expected to improve the lives of several thousand people in an area that has historically been one of the most dangerous and economically challenged in Africa.