Education is a pillar of our comprehensive efforts to protect bonobos and their habitat - just as it has been for more than 25 years!

Read on to see how you have supported this critical element of long-term bonobo conservation...

You raised awareness in areas plagued by poaching

Tshuapa Province -- adjacent to Équateur Province where Ekolo is located -- is one of the territories most affected by poaching.

Over the past four years, you have made educational activities in this province possible!

The bonobo's endangered and protected status is not always well known in these poor, remote provinces. This year, we worked with UALCN (Union of Indigenous Peoples of Loile for Nature Conservation) to carry out a major awareness-raising effort aimed at both local authorities and local communities.

You made so much happen:

• Multiple workshops with representatives of local authorities and security forces, environmental protection officials, traditional and religious leaders, and other representatives of civil society.  

• Educational session at Ikela University attended by over 400 students and teachers.

• Multiple educational programs broadcast on local radio.

Judicaël Ekenda, Director of UALCN, in action.

Because of you, we reached over 1500 people with critical information about bonobos, Congo's wildlife, and habitat conservation!

Radio is a key awareness tool in this part of the world

In areas near Ekolo Reserve, you made nearly 50 radio broadcasts happen!

In remote areas of DRC where TV and internet access is spotty or non-existent, local radio stations are important tools to give people access to news and information.

Some topics covered in the broadcasts:

• Members of the local communities (Baenga and Lisafa) discussed their partnership roles in Ekola ya Bonobo.

• The inauguration of the new primary school wing that you helped make happen!

• Progress made by the Conflict Resolution Committee in the wake of the security issues from last year

• How to avoid human-bonobo encounters

• Legal and illegal fishing techniques

A portion of the completed school wing.

Collection of non-permitted fishing equipment.

Thank you for everything you do for bonobos and their rainforest home!

As always, the bonobos send their love.

From all of us at Friends of Bonobos / Les Amis des Bonobos

Committed to Good Stewardship

Friends of Bonobos is recognized for efficient and effective use of funds.

SHOP