GLOGORENA: Action for sustainable governance in Bukavu
From November 20 to 25, GLOGORENA took a key step in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In partnership with the Official University of Bukavu (UOB) and the Ministry of Mines, we conducted a strategic mission to rethink the management of our natural resources.
What to learn from this mission:
In the field: From artisanal gold mining in Luhihi to the Natural Reserve in Itombwe, we analyzed the real challenges that affect ecosystems and populations.Cooperation: Successful exchanges to strengthen regulatory frameworks and promote more inclusive governance.Commitment: The absolute need to integrate local communities at the heart of decisions for responsible mining and forestry.
The objective? Transform these findings into concrete actions through joint research and training projects. Together, let us build a development model that respects both human and biodiversity.
GLOGORENA, acronym for "Globalization and governance of natural resources in the Congo Basin", is an innovative research initiative aimed at analysing the complex interactions between globalization and natural resource management in this strategic region. This project is led by a Young Team Associated with the Institute of Research for Development (IRD), in collaboration with the Institute of International Relations of Cameroon (IRIC).
The Congo Basin, the second green lung on the planet, is threatened by human exploitation (forestation, mining, agriculture) and complex governance. To meet these challenges, the workshop « Issues Participatory and Environmental » was created. Its aim is to promote sustainable and inclusive management by strengthening collaboration among local people, civil society, States and international partners.
For CSOs: Diversification of Financing: Seek local and alternative sources of funding to increase their independence. Inclusion of Traditional Knowledge: Incorporating traditional knowledge into their projects and promoting women's participation
For Governments and Institutions: Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Adapt legislation to include CSOs in decision-making processes.
Environmental Education: Promote initiatives to integrate environmental protection into the education system
SUMMARY REPORT
Gorillas of the Congo Basin
Organization and Structure of the Workshop
The workshop brought together a broad coalition of participants including civil society organisations (CEFAID, CED, SEEAC), regional networks specializing in forest management and sustainable development (REPALEC, REFADD, REJEFAC, DMJ), as well as researchers from JEAI GLOGORENA and the Paul Ango Ela Foundation. Traditional leaders represented by ReCTrad and IRD officials complemented this multi-sectoral composition focused on Central African forest issues.
Water fall
Challenges and Environmental Militantism of CSOs
Civil society organizations advocate for more inclusive legal and policy frameworks to formalize their role in the environmental governance of the Congo Basin. They also call for increased access to local and regional funding, as well as the creation of national environmental funds to support their projects.
Tree bank
Summary of Challenges and Opportunities
CSOs face important challenges such as financial dependency and lack of institutional support. However, these challenges also provide opportunities to strengthen legal frameworks, improve governance and develop strong partnerships.