More detailed studies are still necessary to determine the number of animal and plant species in the reserve. The results will certainly be surprising. In the surroundings of the reserve, people are grouped in small villages close to the boundaries. The largest village contains about 50 families along the main path that leads to a zone where mining takes place. This is an important place for gold mining, therefore it is presently fallow and a temporary encampment for 15-20 persons was constructed on this land.
People hunt for their own personal requirements, particularly porcupines and giant hogs.
Gorillas are not consumed but sometimes chased when they damage plants and are considered dangerous for the population. Mining for gold is an important economic factor in the region. The main cause for deforestation in the region is the need of land for pasture and agriculture. At the moment, deforestation has been stopped 20 km from the reserve. Population migration programs now being organised in Lubero territory may pose a danger for the region.