Virunga's Rangers

Guardians of Biodiversity

Virunga’s Rangers stand fearlessly on the frontline of conservation for the protection of the Park’s wildlife, natural resources, and for the surrounding communities. They routinely face harsh physical conditions, injury, or even death. Over 200 Rangers have been killed in the line of duty. Without the commitment of these brave men and women, Virunga would not exist.

Park Protection

Virunga currently has 770+ male and female Rangers actively serving to protect the Park and the local communities.

These Rangers go through intense selection processes and extensive training to work for the Park. They are all selected from local Congolese towns and villages and qualify to become civil servants within the Congolese National Park Authority (ICCN).

The Rangers serve in the Park’s four sectors (north, central, south and lake sector), often in extremely difficult circumstances. Virunga’s Rangers face threats from many fronts and risk their lives daily. Over 200 Rangers have been killed whilst serving the Park.

Photo credit: Virunga National Park
Christian is head of the Virunga National Park Canine Unit, which helps to track poachers and contraband such as weapons.
Christian is head of the Virunga National Park Canine Unit, which helps to track poachers and contraband such as weapons.

As a Ranger my job is to protect Virunga National Park, not only for the people of Congo, but for the entire world.

Ranger Christian Shamavu Head of Congohounds Unit
  • Photo credit: Adam Kiefer
  • Photo credit: Adam Kiefer
  • Photo credit: Adam Kiefer
  • Photo credit: Adam Kiefer
  • Photo credit: Adam Kiefer
  • Photo credit: Adam Kiefer
Ranger Force Statistics
  • Rangers

    770+

    Rangers have completed training and are employed by Virunga.

  • Female Rangers

    34

    Female Rangers have completed training and are employed by Virunga.

  • Fallen Rangers

    200+

    Rangers have lost their lives in the line of duty since 1925.

  • Aerial Surveillance

    27,435

    Kilometers of aerial surveillance conducted in the Park in 2022.

  • Routine Patrols

    4500+

    In 2022, the Rangers conducted 4500+ patrols, covering 25,800 km on foot.

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