Author(s) :

Yves Aseke Lukuke, Pierre Okitese Onyumbe, Robert Tambwe Lumumba, Jean Losaka Ngongo, Sabine Shongo Anangelo, Mukamba Kalalu, Joseph Olamba Omanguwo.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly in forest areas, bushmeat constitutes an essential food and economic resource, providing up to 80% of animal protein to local communities after fish. In Lomela, in Sankuru Province, its trade occupies an important place in socio-economic life. However, this activity takes place in a context of weak governance and lack of effective control over wildlife exploitation, thereby compromising the sustainability of natural resources. This study, conducted from January 18 to March 28, 2019, at the central market of Lomela, analyzes the bushmeat trade in order to assess its impact on local wildlife biodiversity. The methodology is based on surveys conducted among sellers, hunters, and local authorities, as well as on the inventory of species traded, volumes sold, prices charged, and conservation techniques. The results reveal the massive sale of eight main species, notably Tragelaphus euryceros (22%), Atherurus africanus (18%), and Cephalophus monticola (16%). Despite the legal ban affecting 13 species, some continue to be traded. Overexploitation has led to the scarcity of 11 species and the local disappearance of the buffalo (Cyncerus caffer caffer) and the elephant (Loxodonta africana). The main factors identified are poverty, unemployment, non-enforcement of regulations, and the lack of economic alternatives. Smoking remains the only conservation method. In addition, 90% of the game comes from Lomela, with the remainder coming from Tshuapa. The study highlights the unsustainable exploitation of wildlife and recommends participatory management, alternative employment, community awareness, wildlife farming, and strengthened control measures

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