Follow the Money: The Podcast A Belgian prince’s parade in Congo
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Oct 15, 2025 Olivier van Beemen, an investigative journalist known for his insights on African parks and conservation, dives into a controversial EU-funded project in Congo led by a Belgian prince. He uncovers how over €157 million was spent, revealing setbacks like Bitcoin mining in the rainforest. Van Beemen critiques the militarized protection of wildlife, sheds light on local conflicts, and discusses how colonial legacies influence perceptions of the prince's management. The podcast raises ethical questions about funding and conservation in a fraught context.
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Fortress Conservation Harms Local Communities
- African Parks presents itself as a savior but operates controversially with militarized 'fortress conservation'.
- Olivier van Beemen argues this approach alienates local people and uses heavy weaponry to protect parks.
Virunga: Natural Treasure In A War Zone
- Virunga is ecologically vital with volcanoes and endangered mountain gorillas yet sits in a violent, conflict-prone region.
- Van Beemen highlights the park's fame and fragility despite its century-long protected status.
Park Conservation Amidst Active Rebel Bases
- Eastern Congo hosts multiple rebel groups and thousands of fighters who use the park as bases.
- Van Beemen stresses this density of conflict complicates conservation and local livelihoods.