I have been working in eastern DR Congo since 2003 and in the park with the Congolese Wildlife Authority since 2005 to assist in the rebuilding of Virunga after the destruction caused by the war and subsequent neglect. Working in the field with local construction engineers, builders, carpenters and welders, I am responsible for building any kind of infrastructure you need in a national park to enable the Rangers to protect it and manage it.

Working on the ground with the Rangers, including Diddy and Innocent

The main challenges are sourcing materials – because these have to come in from all over the world – and the dramatic climatic conditions. But the Congolese, despite almost a decade of civil war, want to rebuild their country and protect the park to provide for future generations.