Congo series(4): Dimitri Moreels runs a cocoa and coffee factory in rebel territory
We know the Mutwanga site near the Virunga Park from the chocolate factory of Dominique Persoone, but it is not alone. In another warehouse further on there is still a lot of activity with Dimitri Moreels as the driving force. He is the son of doctor Réginald Moreels and has been an entrepreneur in Eastern Congo for ten years. Cocoa, coffee, papaya and chia seeds from local farmers are processed here. For example, the fresh cocoa that comes from the farmers is first fermented for a week and then dried in the sun.
Rebels are merciless
Coffee prices can fluctuate quite a bit and farmers are often the victims. Good quality increases the chances of a better price. And that is good for Virunga Park and the farmers in the area. But they can’t count on a quiet life here for the time being. A few nights ago, 12 people were killed here in a village nearby. Another 40 followed the next day in a refugee camp in Bunia.