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Oil Exploration in the Virunga National Park |
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| March 2012 | ||
| Category: D.R. Congo | Threats | Virunga National Park |
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The British oil company SOCO International has received permits to go ahead with oil exploration in the Virunga National Park. The company obtained approval for aero-surveys, which involve flying over Lake Edward. They stated that any activities beyond this would only be conducted with approval of the government and in consultation with stakeholders. Orders signed by the Congolese ministries appear to give SOCO authorisation to carry out a range of oil exploration activities in the park. The company could also extend the exploration to on-the ground seismic surveys. This approval was given despite a commitment in March 2011 by the Congolese Environment Minister to suspend oil exploration in the park pending the result of a Strategic Environmental Assessment. The assessment, funded by the EU and other international donors, is expected to be complete in late 2012. The Mikeno Sector, where the mountain gorillas live, is not involved in these activities. More information in this |
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publication by Global Witness
