Congo Basin Forest Partnership Convenes in Kinshasa, Spotlighting Conservation Success Stories

Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo – The 20th Meeting of Parties of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership concluded between 3-5 June 2024 in Kinshasa, brought together over 600 participants, including 12 forest ministers, for one of the most significant events on Congo Basin rainforest conservation in 2024. The gathering, facilitated by France and Gabon, served as a platform to coordinate efforts for the conservation and sustainable management of this critical ecosystem.

High-level government officials, including Congolese Communication Minister and Government Spokesperson Hon. Patrick Muyaya and Delegate Minister Stephanie Mbombo, demonstrated their commitment to the partnership’s goals. Agenonga Robert, alongside representatives from the US Embassy and members of the diplomatic corps, further underscored the international significance of the event.

The MoP 20 focused on six key themes: protected areas and the 30×30 agenda, land-use planning, sustainable value chains, innovative finance, environmental criminality, and scientific cooperation. Environmental Defenders, a key participant in the event, contributed to a thematic workshop organized by Mongabay, titled “Changing the Narrative: Stories of Hope in African Conservation.”

This workshop, supported by organizations such as the Bezos Earth Fund and the Rainforest Foundation UK, highlighted the need to shift the narrative surrounding conservation in Africa, particularly in the Congo Basin. Distinguished guests from organizations like WWF and IUCN, along with representatives from foreign embassies and the Bezos Earth Fund, participated in this crucial dialogue.

“The prevailing narrative often focuses on the negative,” stated David Akana representing Environmental Defenders. “While challenges exist, it’s crucial to recognize the positive developments and the potential of this region.”

The workshop emphasized several key areas of progress:

• Growing Demand for Minerals: The global shift towards electric vehicles presents an opportunity for the DRC, rich in minerals like cobalt, to leverage this resource for economic growth and poverty alleviation.
• Carbon Market Potential: The Congo Basin holds immense potential within the carbon market, offering a pathway for economic development while addressing climate change.
• Restoration Successes: Significant strides have been made in land and coral reef restoration across Africa, including within the Congo Basin.
• Renewable Energy Transition: The Congo Basin is poised for a transition to renewable energy, with projects like the Inga Dam demonstrating the region’s commitment to sustainable development.

Despite these positive trends, negative narratives often overshadow progress. The workshop stressed the importance of showcasing the real Africa – a continent where indigenous communities are at the forefront of conservation, turning environmental stewardship into economic opportunities.

The MoP 20 served as a reminder of the importance of collaboration, innovation, and a solutions-oriented approach to conservation. By amplifying stories of hope and success, the event aimed to inspire continued action and investment in the sustainable future of the Congo Basin.