DRC fishermen turn to tourism as stocks decline | Africanews
Government in DRC has promised investments but progress remains slow
www.africanews.comThe latest widely reported news I found on the Wagenya centers on their traditional fishing economy in Kisangani, where declining fish stocks have pushed some community members to look to tourism as a new source of income. Reports also note government promises to modernize the Wagenya Falls site, including infrastructure and a hotel project, though the article suggests progress has been slow or uncertain.[1]
What’s being reported
- The Wagenya’s basket-fishing tradition remains a defining part of their identity near Boyoma Falls.[3][4][1]
- Fish numbers in the Congo River have reportedly declined, affecting livelihoods.[1]
- Tourism development has been discussed as a possible replacement income stream.[1]
Recent context
There is also a 2026 social-media post referencing fatalities at Wagenya falls, but that appears unverified and less reliable than the news coverage above. The most solid recent reporting I found is still the 2022 Africanews piece on fishing decline and tourism plans.[7][1]
Background
The Wagenya are known for their unique ancestral fishing method using wooden scaffolds and woven baskets around Boyoma Falls near Kisangani. That makes them both a cultural landmark and a community affected by environmental and economic pressures.[4][3][1]
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