Primate Expertise | International Day of Forests
Dear partners,
This year’s theme, « Forests and Economies, » lies at the heart of our vision. At Primate Expertise and Wild Earth Allies, we are convinced that the prosperity of the DRC relies heavily on the protection of its forests.
For over a decade, our interventions have been turning this ambition into reality. Through our Ape Trees® project—an initiative of the late Dr. Augustin K. Basabose—we have reached major milestones:
- Production and transplantation of 93,505 seedlings grown from seeds collected from great ape dung.
- Restoration of 300 hectares of degraded areas within the Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP).
- Sowing of 56 hectares for the benefit of communities living near the KBNP.
- Planting of Ape Trees and indigenous species across 29.2 hectares of the Idjwi Nyamusisi Nature Reserve.
- Creation of 5 medicinal plant gardens (Ape Trees and indigenous plants) upon which local communities depend for their healthcare.
- Launch of ecological restoration of the Idjwi Island shorelines using bamboo seedlings.
Today, at least 5,300 people benefit from our reforestation efforts. These victories are the result of our collaboration. Together, let us continue to build an economy that values and protects nature.
