The Réserve Naturelle de Tayna (Tayna Nature Reserve), where lush forests cradle some of the world's most endangered species, is a testament to the dedication and resilience of local communities committed to conservation. On the 9^th of March 2024, the community-elected management authority Réserve des Gorilles de Tayna (RGT) hosted its 26^th Ordinary General Assembly, marking another milestone in its journey towards preserving the region's rich biodiversity. More than 300 stakeholders travelled from miles around to attend this annual gathering.

A Rich Legacy

The traditional chiefdoms of Bamate and Batangi created the Tayna Nature Reserve out of a collective desire to safeguard the forest and preserve the spiritual practices and sustainable uses of the land. The reserve now stands as a barrier between intense pressures of deforestation and human population growth advancing from the east and the lush, intact forests to the west.

The land for the reserve was donated by 21 local families, known as barazas, and the management council for the reserve is made up of representatives from these families. Over the years, Tayna has evolved into a model of community-driven conservation, managed by local stakeholders in partnership with international organisations, including GRACE (Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education).

In 2021, we coordinated the first great ape survey ever conducted in Tayna Nature Reserve. The teams found evidence of an estimated 150-300 Grauer's gorillas and a robust population of endangered eastern chimpanzees. Trail cameras captured images of mother and baby gorillas, indicating encouraging trends as a result of conservation interventions. Additionally, the survey highlighted the importance of maintaining connectivity between Tayna Nature Reserve and Maiko National Park through the Usala Corridor to ensure the long-term viability of wildlife populations.

Reflecting on Progress

The 26th General Assembly was an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of the last year. Participants received updates on bio-monitoring efforts and the successes of community education and development initiatives. The structure of the Tayna Nature Reserve allows for sustainable livelihood activities to continue in the forest, and the presentations and discussions reaffirmed a commitment to the well-being of both people and wildlife.

Jackson Kabuyaya Mbeke, DRC Director of GRACE, and Pierre Kakule Vwirasihikya, Esteemed Founder of GRACE and College des Foundateurs de RGT, shared insights into recent endeavors, including the expansion of education, livelihood, and training programs to the communities in Bunyatenge and Muhanga, near the border of Tayna Nature Reserve, and in Burusi, near Mt. Tshiabirimu (or Tshiaberimu) in Virunga National Park.

Looking Ahead

As discussions unfolded, it became clear that the local communities are dedicated to increasing their ability to manage the forest responsibly. They specifically requested capacity-building resources in conservation management, entrepreneurship training, and infrastructure developments such as schools and a health center to benefit the communities.

In the next year, GRACE will also build three field research stations in remote areas of Tayna Nature Reserve, allowing on-the-ground surveys and bioacoustics monitoring. This will greatly enhance our ability to customize conservation interventions based on the species present and provide jobs and training for local community members. We fully expect to be stunned by the diversity and abundance of species we will find.

A Unified Effort

The conservation journey is ongoing and requires collective effort: every voice matters and every action counts. As the sun sets on another RGT General Assembly, it illuminates the path forward - a path guided by passion, resilience, and a shared vision of a robust future for communities, gorillas, and the forests we all rely on.

Josias Kambale Kamaliro and Mark Jordahl

This article is dedicated in memory of four Tayna conservation heroes who have passed away in the last five years. They have made a lasting impact in Tayna and beyond: Jéróme Kayumba, Tendresse Makosano, Tsongo Mutati, and Muhindo Bulongo Ngike.