Natural disasters in the Congo Basin: a call for the mobilization of Member States
The Congo Basin, a true green lung of Africa, faces numerous challenges in terms of environmental protection. Floods, siltation and landslides represent major threats to the region’s populations and ecosystems. It is in this context that Arlette Soudan Nonault, Minister of the Congo Basin, calls on member states to mobilize to fight against these natural disasters.
On the occasion of World Disaster Risk Reduction Day, celebrated each year on October 13, the minister underlined the importance of mobilizing financial resources to integrate climate issues into national policies. According to her, close collaboration between States and financial institutions is essential to support climate initiatives and implement effective prevention and adaptation measures.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), one of the member states in the Congo Basin, has made concrete commitments in the fight against natural disasters. By adhering to the initiative launched by the UN Secretary General during COP27, the DRC has committed to setting up an early warning system for all inhabitants by the end of 2027.
The DRC has also carried out several initiatives to address climate change, including submitting national communications on climate change, developing a national adaptation action program and implementing a national strategy for reducing carbon emissions. CO2 linked to deforestation and forest degradation.
The 2015-2030 Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, adopted at a conference in New York, is seen as key to strengthening adaptation to the consequences of climate change. In this context, the Congo Basin Management Office is committed to supporting meteorological services by validating an action plan to strengthen the network of agro-meteorological stations in Member States.
Mobilization against natural disasters in the Congo Basin is therefore a major challenge to ensure the safety of populations and preserve the environment. Member States must work together and mobilize the necessary resources to put in place prevention, early warning and adaptation measures to climate risks. A real challenge but also an opportunity to create a more resilient and sustainable environment for future generations.