Our work is based on a dual specificity which defines our identity and ensures the impact of our work in the field. We are filling a major ecological gap by combining cutting-edge herpetological research with a unique, decentralized community-based innovation model.
While the Democratic Republic of the Congo is home to more than 60% of the Congo Basin, traditional conservation efforts focus almost exclusively on charismatic megafauna (Bonobos, Okapi, Leopard, Elephant, Hippopotamus, Buffalo, Lion).
Amphibians in aquatic and wetland habitats—which are vital—are suffering from alarming levels of human-caused degradation (deforestation, rampant urbanization, pollution, destructive agricultural practices).
CONEV RDC is the very first and only nongovernmental organization in the DRC specifically dedicated to the protection of amphibians and their ecosystems.
As insect control agents, As essential links in food chains and the ultimate bioindicators of environmental health, amphibians serve as sentinels of our ecosystems.
We are filling this critical gap to reverse the trend and protect these vertebrates, which are among the most vulnerable on the planet.
What fundamentally sets us apart is our innovative approach : the Amphibian Conservation Brigades (BCA). This unique model of operational innovation, inspired by international monitoring standards for megafauna, is a proprietary method meticulously adapted to the microhabitats and specific biology of amphibians.
In practical terms, an Amphibian Conservation Brigade is an elite citizen-led unit, composed of members from local communities, that carries out a threefold mission of active monitoring, collecting scientific field data, and providing community-based environmental education.
Whether they operate in forested, agricultural, or suburban areas, our teams carry out a standardized mission centered on three interconnected technical areas :
To ensure globally comparable results, our teams strictly adhere to the standards of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) on three pilot sites with varied ecological contexts :
Characterized by its vast wetlands and unique aquatic biodiversity, with strong roots in the Mabali Research Center for Ecology and Forestry (CREF).
Focused on resource management in the face of growing demographic and agricultural pressures, with plans to create a community sanctuary for 50 hectares.
As an immediate response to conservation challenges in peri-urban areas—which face significant human pressure and rapid urbanization—the construction of the bypass has fragmented wetlands, causing several kilometers of them to dry up and separating wildlife populations.
Improving local perception and recognition of the the ecological and economic value of amphibians.
Empowering communities to become true stewards of local biodiversity.
The rigorous data collected fills critical gaps in our understanding of our country's ecosystems.
