Les Rapides du Congo-Djoué. 03/04/09; Brazzaville; 2,500 ha; 04°19'S 015°11'E. A complex comprising two of the principal tributaries of the River Congo, the Djoué and the Loua, permanent and temporary rivers, marshes, forested islands and aquaculture ponds. It is one of the rare zone of rapids on the Congolese side of the Congo River basin. The l'Île du Diable , one of three forested islands found within the site, provides refuge for a high concentration of birds that have escaped the ever-increasing human pressures that have led to the disappearance of several species. The waterways of the site support important populations of fish and other invertebrates as they serve as spawning grounds and part of the migration path along the River Congo. While the site is poor in endemic flora, it is known to sustain over 163 species of flora in 60 families. The site is a magnet for tourists due to its unique features, which create a spiritual and cultural attraction to the area  the main economic activities within the site, however, are market gardening, fishing, harvesting of wine palm oil, transport, and presence of a hydroelectric dam. While there is currently no management in place, there are national laws enforced for its protection. Ramsar site no.1857. Most recent RIS information: 2009.

Date de dernière publication: 03-04-2009