December 10, 2024 will mark a major turning point in the sustainable management of natural resources in the provinces of Kasai Oriental and Lomami, in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, the Strategic Orientation Committee (CORS) has launched an ambitious program aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions linked to deforestation and forest degradation in these regions.
Under the supervision of CORS, this innovative project is the result of close collaboration between several key actors, such as FONAREDD, Enabel and national and provincial authorities. The funding granted by CAFI via FONAREDD demonstrates the commitment of the international community to preserving the environment and combating climate change.
The REDD+ Investment Program for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in the Kasai Oriental and Lomami Provinces (PIREDD-KORLOM) is part of the DRC’s National REDD+ Strategy, which aims to maintain forest cover at 67.5% by 2030 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 21%. This ambitious initiative is based on several essential pillars, such as the development of agroforestry systems adapted to local realities, the structuring of communities for participatory resource management, the promotion of the wood energy sector and sustainable agricultural practices, as well as the strengthening of institutional capacities in territorial planning.
This large-scale program, lasting five years and with a budget of 35 million US dollars, aims to operationalize payments for environmental services (PES) by rewarding the preservation of ecosystems through the generation of sustainable income. It covers three territories in the Kasai Oriental province (Katanga, Lupatapata and Tshilenge) and four territories in Lomami (Kamiji, Luilu, Ngandajika and Kabinda), thus demonstrating its scale and regional scope.
PIREDD-KORLOM embodies an integrated and inclusive approach, highlighting the synergies between sustainable agricultural development and forest protection. Building on lessons learned from similar initiatives, such as PIREDD Mongala, this program aims to be a concrete response to current and future environmental challenges, while strengthening local capacities and promoting resilient and equitable development.
In conclusion, the launch of the program to reduce emissions from deforestation in the Kasai Oriental and Lomami provinces marks the beginning of a new era for sustainable natural resource management in the DRC. Through a collaborative and innovation-driven approach, this project stands as an inspiring example of how environmental protection and socio-economic development can go hand in hand for a more sustainable and equitable future for all.