THE POLE POLE FOUNDATION

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The Pole Pole Foundation, known as POPOF, is a multi award-winning NGO based in the South Kivu region of the DRC.

The Kahuzi-Biega National Park is home to one of the last populations of critically endangered Eastern Lowland Gorillas - also known as Grauer's Gorillas - the largest and most impressive sub-species of gorilla on the planet.

With human population growth and illegal activities putting pressure on the gorillas' habitat, we work with local communities to end their reliance on the rainforest for resources, thus conserving the Park and ensuring the gorillas' survival.

​All of our conservation work is community-led.

Without the support of local inhabitants, we simply couldn't do what we do.

We run kindergarten, primary and secondary schools in the area and offer skills training to adults.

We plant trees to be used as resources, as well as conducting reforestation in areas which have been damaged in the past.

You can read more about our sustainable development projects on our 'What We Do' pages.

Our Founder, John Kahekwa, is a much-respected conservationist and expert who has worked with gorillas all his life.

You can read more about him and the team he leads on our 'Who We Are' page.

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