The Rise and Fall of Protected Areas in Central Africa

Modern proposals for protected areas (PAs) in Central Africa often echo colonial-era practices, perpetuating historical injustices while aiming to meet global biodiversity targets. This study reveals that territorialization—a strategic control of bounded space—links colonial reserves like the Mont Fouari hunting complex and Yangambi Floristic Reserve to contemporary PAs such as Lomami National Park. While newer proposals incorporate community consultation, they still risk resurrecting colonial legacies, raising concerns about equity and biodiversity outcomes. The research traces these connections through historical analysis, highlighting the enduring consequences of territorialization on local communities and ecosystems.

Walters, G. M., & Wardell, D. A. (2023). The Rise and Fall of Protected Areas in Central Africa. Power Dynamics in African Forests, 55–86. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003363101-4