The development of a new Community-Based Reserve at Kokolopori has been supported by the BCI Bonobo Surveys & Information Exchange project.

The development of the reserve has been driven by local interests and efforts. Vie Sauvage, a Congolese NGO made up primarily of residents of Kokolopori has taken the lead in reserve development. BCI has supported training, and capacity building programs for Vie Sauvage and other community organizations.

While the ecological surveys gained valuable evidence about bonobo populations, vegetation and other biodiversity indicators, the information exchange component of the project has been instrumental in motivating local support and participation in conservation efforts. This has catalyzed the development of the Kokolopori Reserve, in the Central Congo Basin, which will be the first community-based reserve in the bonobo habitat. In 2003, BCI and Vie Sauvage received signed accords from the villages of Kokolopori to create a community-based reserve encompassing over 1100 square miles.

In addition, Vie Sauvage has signed an accord with the Lonua villages (1900 square miles) to the northeast of Kokolopori, where bonobo populations are also evident. The new reserves could be linked through a corridor and buffer zone to the existing Luo Scientific Reserve around the long-term research site at Wamba. On-going survey and information exchange work will identify and lay the groundwork for creation of an expanding network of community managed protected areas.

Click on the picture of the grey parrot to learn what other species may be found at Kokolopori.

Kokolopori has become a model Community-Based Reserve and has motivated other communities to participate in conservation efforts. Kokolopori will be an anchor for regional conservation efforts.

Accomplishments to date include:

1.) Conservation centers built in 3 core villages with over 10 buildings, pilots and training centers; 2) training and participation of rangers in biodiversity surveys and on-going monitoring; 3) sustainable agriculture training and implementation which has yielded the expansion of 12 multiplication fields; 4) independent community-driven distribution of improved cassava cuttings to other communities; 5) evacuation of goods in collaboration with SOCOLO and river boat KETSY; 6) micro-credit projects with the Kokolopori Women’s Association, including soap making and couture; 7) support for local schools and the development of a pilot health clinic; 8) on-going conservation sensitization programs; and 8) pilot eco-tours with a feasibility study in progress. At present, over 50 Kokolopori residents are employed in conservation, management and sustainable development programs. Recently, an official Sister City partnership between Kokolopori and Falls Church City, VA was established, which will increase community development support, educational opportunities, cultural exchange, and publicity.

Research initiated by local indigenous Congolese partners has attracted international attention and a new research site is being established in cooperation with Harvard University.

Smithsonian magazine has just featured Kokolopori in the November 2006 cover story.

Please check back for continuous Kokolopori updates and notes from the field.

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