Contribution des savoirs des peuples autochtones à la conservation de la biodiversité dans la Réserve de Faune à Okapi

Indigenous peoples' traditional knowledge significantly contributes to biodiversity conservation in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve, Democratic Republic of Congo. The study identified strict taboos against exploiting 20 mammal species (primarily primates and artiodactyls) and 57 plant species (notably Fabaceae), demonstrating how local customs protect vulnerable flora and fauna. Surveys of 253 households across six peripheral localities revealed that while agriculture, hunting, gold panning, fishing, and gathering are prevalent, indigenous practices also include the preservation of forest areas in the reserve's hinterland. These findings highlight the potential for integrating local knowledge into conservation strategies to enhance environmental education and community engagement.

Kambale, P. S. (2023). Contribution des savoirs des peuples autochtones à la conservation de la biodiversité dans la Réserve de Faune à Okapi. Journal of Applied Biosciences, 190. https://doi.org/10.35759/jabs.190.10