Chinese mining company expands operations in endangered Congo wildlife reserve

A Chinese mining company has expanded operations within the Okapi Wildlife Reserve in Congo, a protected World Heritage Site, for eight years. This has raised concerns among locals and conservationists about environmental damage and illegal mining activities. The reserve's boundaries have reportedly been reduced, allowing the company to operate despite mining being prohibited in protected areas. An internal government memo indicates plans to close all mining operations in the reserve, but the timeline remains unclear. Residents report significant environmental harm, including deforestation and water contamination. Many locals have lost their livelihoods due to the mining activities, which have also led to increased poverty and limited access to resources.