How Congo River Zaire Threatens The Last Wild Heart Of The Planet

Sun, 03 May 2026 09:30:14 +0000

How the Congo River Zaire Threatens the Last Wild Heart of the Planet Nestled in the heart of Africa, the Congo River—known locally as Zaire—flows as the lifeblood of one of Earth’s most biodiverse and remote wilderness regions. Often hailed as the last wild heart of our planet, the Congo Basin remains a vast, untouched sanctuary for countless species and indigenous communities. Yet, beneath its natural splendor lies a complex and growing threat: the slow, powerful force of the Zaire River itself, coupled with human pressures that challenge its resilience. The Congo River Zaire: Nature’s Untamed Power The Congo River, second only to the Amazon in volume, is the deepest river in the world—its depths plunge over 220 meters in places. Known as Zaire in some regions, its waters carve through dense tropical rainforests, vast wetlands, and ancient landscapes. This mighty river sustains entire ecosystems, feeding rich biodiversity and supporting millions of people who rely on its resources for survival.