Support for ICCN Ecoguards and Local Chiefs
Support from Fondation Segré enabled our sustained commitment to ICCN by providing necessary rations for over 200 ecoguards to support their patrol of an estimated 6,000 km² of the Reserve. Additionally, we have been proactive in ensuring the healthcare needs of 285 ecoguards, including support to 660 of their family members. The wellness of ICCN ecoguards and their families is critical to their capacities to uphold and implement conservation throughout the OWR and surrounding communities.
The new ICCN General Director, Mr. Yves MILAN NGANGAY was warmly welcomed with his delegation in Epulu. Since this was his first visit to the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (OWR) and the first time he met our staff, the OCP team gave a presentation to show OCP achievements over the past 36 years wand our plans for the future. During his visit, a parade was organized for the community and attended by OWR rangers and administration staff, and during his speech, ICCN General Director urged rangers to a sense of professionalism and discipline to stand against various threats to this reserve rich of biodiversity.
Mr. Yves MILAN NGANGAY meeting OCP Accountant Mutahinga MUMBERE ELEME
In our efforts to provide support to administrative and customary chiefs and authorities, ICCN/OWR, in collaboration with OCP, has successfully donated essential office supplies to ten distinct chefferies. These supplies have been distributed to Walese Dese, Babila Babombi, and Bandaka Chefferies in Mambasa Territory, Mahaa, Bafwakoyi, Malamba, and Malika Mabudu Maberu Chefferies in Wamba Territory, as well as Kebo, Andobi, and K-Ateru Chefferies in Watsa Territory. This initiative aims to support effective governance and facilitate improved operations within these local administrative units.
In memoriam
We are sad to report ICCN ecoguard, Gibril KABENGANA, was killed in the line of duty on June 27, 2023, when his patrol team was ambushed by an armed group in the North of Epulu station. KABENGANA is survived by his wife and two children. As part of our Family Fund for ICCN ecoguards, OCP will provide support to his family in this difficult time as well as school fees for his children through their secondary schooling.
KABENGANA’s untimely death is a stark reminder of the profound risks ICCN ecoguards undertake daily in their efforts to secure the Okapi Wildlife Reserve. OCP remains resolute in our commitment to supporting the inspiring dedication of ICCN ecoguards. If you are interested in supporting our fund for fallen ecoguards and their families, please contribute through this link.
