Kinshasa, 26 June 2026 – Greenpeace Africa expresses its deep concern following an alert issued by AGIREC Maniema on Thursday, 25 June 2026, reporting an alleged case of elephant poaching in Punia Territory, Maniema Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

While the circumstances surrounding this case must be fully established by the competent authorities, the incident serves as a stark reminder of a troubling reality: poaching continues to threaten protected wildlife species in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and undermines the integrity of the Congo Basin’s ecosystems.

“Elephants play an irreplaceable ecological role in maintaining the balance of tropical forests. Their gradual disappearance weakens biodiversity, reduces ecosystems’ resilience to climate change, and directly affects the livelihoods of communities that depend on natural resources,” said Bonaventure Bondo, Congo Basin Forest Campaigner at Greenpeace Africa.

Greenpeace Africa calls on the relevant authorities to conduct an independent, impartial and transparent investigation to establish the facts, identify those responsible, and ensure the effective enforcement of national laws protecting wildlife.

Beyond legal action, Greenpeace Africa believes that the fight against poaching must also be strengthened through greater engagement with local communities.

To this end, Greenpeace Africa reaffirms its willingness to work alongside civil society organizations, provincial authorities, relevant technical services and conservation partners to strengthen community awareness initiatives in areas most at risk.

“Protecting biodiversity is a shared responsibility. Local communities are the first custodians of the Congo Basin forests and must be fully involved in conservation efforts. Awareness-raising, prevention and effective law enforcement remain our strongest tools for safeguarding our natural heritage for future generations,” added Bonaventure Bondo.

Greenpeace Africa reiterates its commitment to supporting all initiatives aimed at protecting endangered species, promoting responsible natural resource governance, and preserving the Congo Basin forests, which are essential to global climate stability.

END

Media Contact:

Raphael Mavambu, Communication & Story-Telling Manager, [email protected], +243 810 679 437