LUKI BIOSPHERE RESERVE

The Mayumbe forest massif stretches from the north of Boma towards the enclave of Cabinda (Angola) in the west, and extends northwards towards the Republic of Congo. This region has taken on the characteristics of a plateau, with an altitude of 600 to 700 m. For many years, the Mayumbe forests have provided quality timber species. The area of Mayumbe forests was estimated at 500,000 hectares in 1950, but is currently estimated at 54,000 hectares. The main cause of deforestation is uncontrolled logging, both by large companies and by small-scale loggers and farmers.

Luki Biosphere Reserve. Created in 1937 to protect the primary forest of the Mayumbe massif, this 32,800-hectare biosphere reserve is one of three recognized by UNESCO. It is home to a primary sub-equatorial forest surrounded by secondary forests, savannahs and agroforestry farms. The main threats are illegal logging, slash-and-burn agriculture and poaching. It is divided into two zones: a core zone where human interference is minimal, and a zone used for research, training and education, and tourism activities. Projects are being developed in the surrounding villages to make villagers less dependent on forest resources. These projects are based on agroforestry and environmental protection.

Ecotourism trail. Luki offers the chance to immerse yourself in lush natural surroundings. The area is now open to ecotourism. An ecological trail takes you through part of the primary forest, an exceptional environment. With amazing trees, including a 700-year-old giant. The trail lasts 3 hours and is an opportunity to talk to local farmers.

Kinshasa-Muanda tourist route. In 2022, a global agreement has been signed to develop tourism in a way that respects the environment and local populations. This is a 10-year project in partnership with INERA, international donors and civil society. The Luki Biosphere Reserve will be one of the major sites to benefit from the project: installation of a campsite enhanced with local materials, training of eco-guides, marking of trails, development of educational centers, etc. The project is headed by Norbert Mushenzi, honorary curator of the DRC's national parks.