Itombwe Nature Reserve

The Itombwe Nature Reserve is a protected area in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, straddling the Uvira, Fizi, Mwenga, and Shabunda territories. Covering an area of approximately 6,009.10 square kilometres (2,320.13 mi²), the reserve forms part of a designated Lion Conservation Unit and is recognized for its biodiversity, particularly within the Itombwe Mountain massif. This mountainous region is characterized by high-altitude forest ecosystems that serve as critical habitat for various flora and fauna, including several primate species such as the endangered eastern lowland gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri).

The reserve was officially established by the national government in 2006, following a conservation initiative that began in 1998 with the aim of safeguarding the region's ecological integrity. However, the initial declaration lacked clarity regarding the reserve's exact boundaries and the types of land use permitted within it. At the time of its establishment, the reserve encompassed an estimated 760,000 hectares (7,600 km²). Local communities living near the reserve expressed concerns that its protected status conflicted with their traditional livelihoods and land use practices. In response to these concerns, a participatory boundary revision process was initiated, culminating in Provincial Decree No. 16/026/GP-SK on 20 June 2016, which redefined the reserve's boundaries and land use zones in consultation with local stakeholders but was not formally validated by the central government. The revised management framework established three distinct zones within the reserve: a conservation zone for wildlife with no human activity permitted; a multiple-use zone that allows limited human activities and sustainable resource extraction; and a development zone that includes villages where sustainable development projects are encouraged.