Biodiversity conservation and benefits for local communities and indigenous peoples. Case study of the luwe itota protected forest and nkuba conservation area in eastern Dr Congo

The Luwe Itota Protected Forest and Nkuba Conservation Area are examples of wilderness areas managed by indigenous peoples and local communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. These initiatives are being promoted in the Democratic Republic of Congo to diversify conservation strategies and to support the country’s commitments to contribute to the global collective effort to achieve Target 3 (30x30) of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework by 2030. Around the Luwe Itota Protected Forest and Nkuba Conservation Area live indigenous peoples, particularly the Batwa indigenous people, whose traditions are deeply connected to the forest ecosystem. The benefits and services they derive from these ecosystems are invaluable. These protected areas, rich in biodiversity, also host endemic and flagship species of the region, notably the Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri), among others. This species is classified as Critically Endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List. The objective of this paper is to analyse the benefits that indigenous peoples and local communities derive from the Luwe Itota Protected Forest and Nkuba Conservation Area, while also contributing to biodiversity conservation in these sites. In the long term, preserving the cultural and natural values of the Luwe Itota Protected Forest and Nkuba Conservation Area requires promoting the traditional knowledge and practices of local communities, particularly those related to sacred sites and customary access norms. These practices are transmitted orally, from elder knowledge holders to the younger generation, often through initiation rites. Promoting inclusive and equitable governance that strengthens the role, capacities, and rights of indigenous peoples and local communities is essential. Therefore, it is necessary to promote sustainable self-governance mechanisms, beyond institutional support, to transition away from perpetually assisted management.