Virunga: 100 Years of an Exceptional Park

Virunga National Park, the green lung in the eastern DR Congo, is Africa's oldest nature reserve. This publication, written by around forty experts, explores the complex history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Virunga National Park, the green lung in the eastern DR Congo, is Africa's oldest nature reserve. The park is breathtakingly beautiful and offers an unparalleled diversity of ecosystems—from active volcanoes to tropical rain forests, from the glaciers of the Rwenzori peaks to the savannas of Rwindi. It is home to an exceptional array of wildlife, including the world’s last mountain gorillas. Thanks to these unique features, Virunga is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This publication, written by around 40 experts, explores the complex history of this Congolese gem. It sheds light on those who have dedicated themselves to its preservation since 1925, as well as the current teams fighting to address the countless environmental and social challenges in a region plagued by conflict, poverty, and humanitarian crises. Through their efforts, the park has become a catalyst for development and stabilisation of the entire region. The book invites us on a fascinating journey where resilience and innovation serve the park and surrounding communities, continuing to shape the legend of Virunga.

Emmanuel de Merode, Jean-Pierre d’Huart, and Frédéric Henrard each have a deep connection with Virunga National Park. De Merode has been leading the park since 2008 and launched the Virunga Alliance. D’Huart began his career as a researcher in Virunga and continues to work on conservation projects. Henrard supported De Merode as an advisor in Rumangabo from 2017 to 2022.