South Kivu : Four Young wambuti earn university degrees thanks to the Kahuzi-Biega National Park

A new page of history is being written among the Indigenous communities of eastern Congo. Four young Wambuti have successfully completed their university studies a remarkable milestone made possible through the support of the Kahuzi-Biega National Park (PNKB) and its technical and financial partners.

Paul Bandenge and Kendi Salumu Fidèle earned their Bachelor’s degrees in Management Information Systems from the Higher Pedagogical Institute of Bukavu. Estha Zamukulu graduated in Nursing, specializing in Midwifery, at the Higher Institute of Medical Techniques in Goma, while Buzima Cizungu obtained a degree in Educational Sciences from the Free University of Uvira and Great Lakes, Kalonge extension.

These achievements are the result of long-term commitment and support. Some students benefited from five years of assistance funded by the German Development Bank (KfW) under the former Congolese university system, while others completed their studies through the Bachelor-Master-Doctorate (LMD) system over three years, with support from the American people through USAID, as part of the Tulinde Haki na Mazingira Zetu project.

In a heartfelt message of gratitude, graduate Bandenge Amani Paul expressed his appreciation to the donors and partners for their invaluable support:

 “Thanks to your commitment and generosity, I was able to access education  a fundamental right that remains a dream for many children in my Batwa community. You have not only invested in my future, but also restored hope and dignity to an entire people often marginalized.”

More Batwa students are expected to defend their theses in the coming months. To date, the PNKB supports 41 Indigenous Wambuti students enrolled in higher education institutions across South and North Kivu.

According to Radar Nishuli, former Chief Warden of the park, this achievement reflects a vision rooted in empowerment and inclusion:

“We are proud to have been among the pioneers of Batwa education. Seeing these young people graduate today is proof that conservation can also mean emancipation.”

Beyond protecting wildlife and ecosystems, this initiative embodies a broader conviction to protect the forest, one must also invest in its people. By promoting access to education for Indigenous communities, the PNKB and its partners demonstrate that integrated conservation can be a powerful driver of development, dignity, and social peace.