Community Empowerment and Assistance is Key to Conservation

We made notable strides in our agroforestry and community support initiatives throughout the Reserve. Our teams began the peanut harvest and closely monitored rice fields in Epulu, Niania, and Biakato, ensuring proper maintenance across all sites. Over 60,000 tree seedlings were distributed so far this year, with 1,078 farmers benefiting from ongoing guidance and support.

However, challenges remain. Moth larvae caused damage to 10 rice fields in Bandisende, while elephants impacted fields in Epulu. Storage limitations and mice infestation affected seed reserves in Niania, Wamba, and Mungbere.

As we continue our support to our women’s empowerment groups, additional communities have requested program expansions. In healthcare, malaria remains the top illness, with 452 cases reported this quarter, largely due to insufficient mosquito net use and poor sanitation. We remain committed to addressing these challenges in partnership with local communities.