Conflicts Between Indigenous Pygmy Peoples, the Local Community and the Kahuzi-Biega National Park in Eastern of the DRC: Conflict Management Strategies towards Perspectives for Peaceful Cohabitation

Abstract

The main goal of this study was to document and analyse the consequences of conflicts between Indigenous Pygmy peoples and local communities on one side, and the Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP) on the other. Furthermore, the study aimed to develop strategies to manage these conflicts drawing up effective recommendations for sustainable solutions. The park was created in 1970, with a 600-ha surface area. By the 1975 ordinance, the area was extended increasing its surface area up to 600,000 ha. To collect data, we used a literature review and field surveys, including a one-month pre-survey and a two-month survey. Several techniques were applied (direct disengaged observation; documentary technique; group discussions; individual semi-structured interviews). The data were analysed using SPSS174 software. The results confirm existing conflicts between the KBNP, the indigenous Pygmy peoples and the other riparian communities. The conflict has resulted in killings, clashes using knives, bullets and rifles, and a massive return of indigenous Pygmy peoples into the park. This conflict has taken root as a result of the unpreparedness of the indigenous peoples in the process of their relocation outside the KBNP before the creation and enlargement of the protected area. Moreover, other riverside communities and the indigenous Pygmy peoples are in conflict with the Park due to the non-access to the protected area