In 2026 PEl61 will sail from Ostend to the Democratic Republic of Congo. With this remarkable stunt we want to highlight the ecological consequences of the construction of a new deep-sea port in Banana and draw attention to the threatened survival of local 'Bibwati' fishermen in the Congolese marine reserve 'Mangroves National Park'.

A long sandy spit known as Banana separates the Congo river from the Atlantic Ocean. Due to the construction plans of Congo’s first deep seaport it became subject of controversy. A deepwater port at Banana might have an impact on the ecologically sensitive area and the local communities. The controversial project on the edge of the Mangroves National Park could damage critical coastal habitats and the olive ridley sea turtles nesting areas. 

Coast of West Africa

With the new port built so close to the perimeter of the park there is also fear that some of the forest might be cut back to build supporting infrastructure. The nature reserve contains a variety of vulnerable or endangered plant and animal species, including four species of turtles, manatees and mudskippers.  

The Mangroves Marine Park is an essential ecosystem for mangrove clam divers and fishers. The clams known as bibwati, are boiled and taken for food. The shells are thrown onto the river bank, joining a pile of remains that become the foundations for small villages. The men and women divers are members of the Assolongo tribe – the only community authorised to live in the mangrove forests.

Banana - Kongo Central