Why are conservationists focusing on Virunga National Park?

Territories in war-torn areas don’t just suffer from the loss of human life and livelihood. In Africa, armed conflict has led to the decline of rare animal species. Margaret L. Salmon, M.D., an entrepreneur, doctor, and humanitarian who has worked in DR Congo and Ethiopia, has seen how strife can destroy a country’s natural resources.

Virunga National Park has the largest wildlife in Africa, covering 7,800 sq km and serving as home to thousands of species. Since 1992, Belgian prince Emmanuel de Merode has been serving as the national park’s director. As a dedicated conservationist, he is focused on preserving the life of animals in the area, especially those that are being poached such as hippos and the famous mountain gorilla. Virunga National Park also boasts of forests and lakes that have a wide variety of aquatic resources that can fund the livelihood of locals. Though the world’s oldest national park is once again open to tourists, the staff continues to stay on high alert to ensure security.

From what Margaret L. Salmon, M.D., has witnessed, in areas recovering from conflict such as the Congo, communities and natural resources must be restored and protected. Decades of tension have led many to turn to illegal means that involve destroying and killing animals. Conservation efforts in the area serve as a step toward showing citizens that discipline and collaboration can preserve wildlife.

While there’s still much to be done in the national park, a lot of improvement can already be seen. The numbers of mountain gorillas, elephants, and other mammals are increasing. Using innovative surveillance technologies and by further empowering park staff, government authorities, non-profit organizations, partner governments, and other stakeholders are doing their best to continually provide a safer environment for the wildlife.

Margaret L. Salmon, M.D., uses her background as an entrepreneur to direct InnovationsCZ, an innovation lab dedicated to prototyping cheaper solutions to fulfill the immediate healthcare needs for populations caught in conflict. Learn more about Dr. Salmon and InnovationsCZ on this page.<./i>