Epulu Okapi Wildlife Reserve faces ongoing ADF rebel threats

Officials at the Epulu Okapi Wildlife Reserve in the Ituri province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo have warned that the ADF rebel group continues to pose a significant threat to the site. During a visit to the reserve on September 11, 2026, reserve leaders expressed these concerns to the provincial governor, Gaby Kasongo Mulumba.

The threat extends beyond the okapi species to include the safety of reserve staff, local communities, and the surrounding forest habitat. Insecurity limits essential patrols, which increases the risks of poaching, illegal exploitation, and habitat destruction. The reserve's management noted that effective protection requires better communication tools, mobility, and rapid response capabilities for guards.

While joint operations by the FARDC and the Ugandan army target the ADF, reserve officials emphasized the need for a specific strategy that involves local communities. Governor Mulumba has reportedly committed to monitoring the security situation and strengthening protection for the reserve and its endemic species.