Category: Ecology

** Kinshasa: an aquatic revolution in progress? **

In the daily tumult of Kinshasa, Governor Daniel Bumba calls for the establishment of river taxis on the Congo river, an initiative that could lighten the endless traffic jams that paralyze the city. With more than 10 million inhabitants and often impassable roads, the Congolese capital suffers from congestion costing 2 % of its GDP. However, skepticism hangs over this promise, fueled by past failures of public investments.

The introduction of these river taxis should not be an isolated solution. It is crucial to adopt a systemic vision which integrates routes, rivers and possibly rail, while inspiring similar projects carried out in the world, as in Sao Paulo. Success will also depend on increased transparency in project management and an open dialogue with citizens.

Kinois can also play an active role in this transformation, by initiating community projects that could facilitate the adoption of river taxis and make them more integrated into their daily lives. In the end, this new approach to urban transport could represent much more than a simple means of displacement: it would symbolize a hope of dignity and improvement of the quality of life within this metropolis in full change.

### Lubumbashi: Towards a new town planning after demolitions?

The recent operation to demolish illegal constructions in Lubumbashi, announced by the interim mayor Joyce Tunda Kazadi, resonates as a call to order in the face of anarchic urbanization which reigns in the city. While almost 60 % of urban dwellings are built without authorization, this approach raises crucial questions about the management of urban space and the housing crisis that strikes the most vulnerable. Could demolition be an opportunity to rethink the development with projects incorporating social housing and public spaces, while taking into account the needs of local communities? At the dawn of a necessary urban transformation, the future of Lubumbashi takes shape at the expense of a simple shine, but in a spirit of collaboration between all the actors involved. A change to follow closely to hope for a balance between development and social justice.

** A planet breathing in concern: the urgency of acting in the face of air pollution **

The air we breathe has become an increasingly pressing global concern. According to the latest IQAir report, less than a fifth of the cities around the world respects air quality standards of the World Health Organization. While certain regions like Australia are distinguished by their air quality, others, especially in Africa and South Asia, are faced with alarming levels of pollution which jeopardize public health and exacerbate social inequalities.

This scourge, often invisible in the eyes of the world, particularly affects the most vulnerable, which lack resources to act. Air pollution, linked to fossil fuels, is a catalyst for environmental and health crises, causing approximately seven million premature deaths per year. Faced with this, it is imperative to mobilize citizens, governments and businesses to establish sustainable policies and practices.

Education and awareness is essential to arouse collective action. Each gesture counts, whether it involves using public transport or participating in reforestation initiatives. We have the possibility of transforming this crisis into an opportunity for sustainable change, to guarantee a healthy and breathable future for future generations. Air quality is a matter of collective well-being, and it is time to act together to breathe a little more freely.

### The energy revolution: for a sustainable future in South Africa

While the world is moving towards sustainable energy solutions, the South African mining industry is at a crucial turning point. With its metal reserves of the platinum group and other essential minerals, South Africa is well placed to meet the growing demand for resources necessary for the energy transition. However, the current energy crisis in the country represents a challenge that could also catalyze an essential transformation of the mining sector.

Companies are starting to explore alternative energy solutions such as solar and wind, thus optimizing their efficiency while contributing to sustainability. To take full advantage of this potential, a balance between regulation and investment is essential, inspired by successful international models.

But the exploitation of these riches must also be done with a view to inclusiveness, ensuring that the profits reach local communities. As the ICS2025 summit approaches, South Africa must position itself as a leader in sustainable mines, embracing a vision that combines economic prosperity and social responsibility. The key question remains: will the country be able to transform its mineral wealth into a lever for sustainable growth for all?

### Collision at the North Sea: an ecological alert crucial

On March 10, 2025, a tragic maritime accident took place in the North Sea, when the oil tanker Stena Immaculate was struck by the container carrier Solong. This incident, causing a kerosene leak, raises enormous concerns about maritime security and environmental impact, jeopardizing already fragile marine ecosystems. While accidents related to dangerous materials increase, the need for urgent revision of safety standards becomes essential. This disaster highlights the importance of international cooperation to prevent future disasters and to protect our seas, essential for biodiversity and coastal economies. Collective awareness and proactive actions are essential to ensure the sustainability of our oceans.

### Jokosun Energies: Electrification at the service of ecology in Senegal

Jokosun Energies, an innovative SME based in Casamance, transforms the fishing industry into Senegal with an energetic and lasting solution. Founded by Raymond Sarr in 2018, the company offers a unique model of thermal motors retrofit to electric motors, thus offering an effective response to pollution and cost issues. Piroguiers, who note a reduction of 50 % of their fuel costs, are not satisfied with savings; They also participate in the protection of marine ecosystems, weakened by climate change.

Introducing a modernity that respects traditions, Jokosun generates a positive socio-economic dynamic within local communities. With the training of local mechanics and a more ecological image of Senegal, the initiative could attract new investments in sustainable tourism. By expanding its fleet of electric canoes, Jokosun Energies illustrates how an enlightened vision can combine progress and respect for the environment, thus drawing the contours of a greener future on the scale of the African continent.

### The fight against malaria: an urgent call for global solidarity

June announces the dreaded season of malaria in Africa, where this disease continues to wreak havoc, especially in children. With 597,000 deaths in 2023, the majority of which in Africa, the crisis is getting worse, exacerbated by severe cuts in international aid. Dr. Jimmy Opigo, head of the malaria control program in Uganda, highlights the disastrous consequences of the interruption of funding, thus leading to access to treatments and prevention. The alarming data provides up to 15 million additional cases and nearly 107,000 avoidable deaths due to a break in the supply chain in medication and mosquito nets. While the search for vaccines is underway, the urgent need for international support is felt to prevent countries like Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo to see their efforts annihilated. The fight against malaria requires a collective and sustainable response. To save lives and guarantee a healthy future, the rich nations must strengthen their commitment to Africa, where each child who succumbs to this disease represents an unacceptable failure for global development.

### Tragedy in Komanda: a child victim of explosive devices

On March 7, 2025, the commune of Komanda, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was shaken by a tragedy when the explosion of a grenade, left abandoned, cost a child under 14. This dramatic incident highlights the persistent dangers of unwanted explosive devices that haunt populated areas, exacerbated by a chronic insecurity environment. Testimonies reveal that many children, already confronted with precarious living conditions, are exposed to such risks without adequate protection.

With more than 500 incidents related to non -explosive ammunition recorded in the ITURI region last year, this tragic event highlights the urgent need for educational and community initiatives aimed at raising awareness. The mobilization of NGOs and the government is essential to establish alert systems and demining programs to protect the most vulnerable. The future of many children is based on our ability to transform this tragedy into a lever for change, thus guaranteeing a safer environment for future generations.

** Kinshasa: an awakening citizen to fight against unsanitary conditions **

In a capital in the grip of growing unsanitary conditions, Pastor Marcello Tunasi stands as a fervent defender of a change of mentality in Kinshasa. Faced with the accumulation of waste and increasing pollution, it urges the population to be actively involved in the sanitation of their city, recalling that the transformation involves citizen mobilization. With the experience of other African cities, he underlines the crucial impact of environmental education from an early age to establish a culture of responsibility. While Kinshasa is facing annual unsanitary conditions amounting to $ 1.6 billion, Tunasi’s initiative represents a hope: that of a future where each Kinois undertakes to restore the beauty of their environment, for the good of all. A call for collective action that could change mentalities and revitalize this metropolis with immense potential.

### Fight for rhino: progress and challenges in South Africa

In 2024, South Africa recorded an encouraging drop in poaching of rhinoceros, with 420 animals killed, 16% less than in 2023. This positive trend is partly due to desourning programs, but it coexists with disturbing disparities, especially in Kruger National Park where poaching cases increased. This complexity highlights the importance of adapting conservation strategies, in particular by integrating advanced technologies such as drones and data analyzes. At the same time, the valuation of biodiversity and the awareness of local communities are essential to build lasting resistance against poaching. In short, although progress has been made, the future of rhinos requires a collective commitment and a systemic approach to preserve these emblematic species.