Unraveling fishers' perceptions: Impact of mining on fish yield and diversity in Mwenga, South Kivu, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

In South Kivu province, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a significant number of active mines are situated near strictly protected ecosystems, where adverse effects including deforestation, water pollution, soil degradation and loss of biodiversity have been documented. Understanding the local communities' perceptions of how mining affects fish diversity and yield is crucial for fostering a harmonious relationship among stakeholders and preserving the environment and its biodiversity, particularly in Mwenga territory where mining activities are widespread. This study aimed to establish the typology of fishers, and to investigate their perceptions and drivers of these perceptions regarding the impact of mining operations on fish yield and diversity in the Mwenga territory, Democratic Republic of Congo.