Information from the Mikeno Sector Patrol Posts
- Djomba: the tourism centre, guards housing and visitors huts have been ransacked. Communication (VHF radio), furniture and books have all been stolen. Fortunately, both habituated gorilla groups, Rugabo and Rugendo, are unharmed, and it seems that
their range has not altered since the onset of fighting in the area.
- Bukima: the tourism centre, visitors huts and guards housing have all been destroyed. Information on the habituated gorilla groups is that Ndungutses group is currently frequently encountered near the edge of the forest. Rafikis group has also be
en located, deeper into the forest on the slopes of the volcanoes. Luwawa's group has not yet been located. Luwawa was one of the silverbacks shot in 1995; the group has since been taken over by a wild silverback and is therefore notoriously timid.
Regular monitoring of the habituated groups stopped as a result of the war. However, IGCP is currently providing funding to IZCN to enable the guards and guides to recommence this essential activity.
Nyamulagira: Erupting during the course of Zaire's political unrest
During the course of the troubles in Eastern Kivu, the volcano Nyamulagira erupted from its north-west upper slope (viewed from Rumangabo). The lava flowed towards Tongo. These regular eruptions destroy forest, and create the characteristic mosaic of for
est habitats, in this sector.
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