Category: Ecology

** The Imbongo forest: a cultural heritage in danger in the face of deforestation **

The Imbongo forest, a symbol of a sacred relationship between man and nature, is threatened by the illicit sale orchestrated by certain heads of earth. This situation challenges both culturally and economically, while local communities, dependent on these lands for their subsistence, are in difficulty in the face of rapid deforestation. The Democratic Republic of Congo, displaying one of the most alarming deforestation rates in the world, must imperatively act to preserve this fragile ecosystem and guarantee the food security of the populations. Faced with this crisis, an inclusive dialogue between civil society, the authorities and the heads of earth is crucial. Sustainable and collaborative management initiatives could offer a path to a future where nature conservation and economic development are no longer opposed, but enrich each other.

### The future of agriculture in East Africa: crickets as a sustainable solution

East Africa is going through an agricultural crisis exacerbated by devastating droughts, testing the survival of pastoral communities. Faced with the loss of cattle and growing economic challenges, an innovation emerges: cricket breeding. This practice, which offers a nutritious and ecological alternative, could well transform the agricultural landscape of the region.

Cricks, rich in protein and requiring far fewer resources than traditional cattle, represent a promising response to malnutrition which affects millions of people. Supported by NGOs like Cordaid and Impact, this initiative allows Laikipia women to reinvent themselves, while placing sustainability at the heart of their agricultural practices.

However, acceptance of edible insects remains a cultural challenge. The testimonies of courageous women illustrate the need for continuous education to reconcile traditions and modernity. By rethinking their relationship to agriculture, these communities could redefine their future. The road is still strewn with pitfalls, but cricket breeding may well become a symbol of resilience and innovation, offering a lasting future perspective in the face of old crises.

### Heat wave in Egypt: between challenges and opportunities

The current heat wave in Egypt is not limited to record temperatures, it highlights the glaring challenges of climate change with which the country is confronted. With temperatures exceeding 37 ° C in Aswan, the impact on the population, the economy and the environment becomes alarming. The increase in energy needs, especially for air conditioning, puts under pressure an already fragile electrical network, especially in the most vulnerable regions.

The Egyptian meteorological authority calls for preventive measures, but these must be accompanied by government initiatives to raise awareness of the risks linked to heat. Inspired by the resilience strategies adopted by other Mediterranean countries, Egypt could better adapt to extreme climatic events.

Although a slight refreshment is in sight, it is essential to prepare the country for unpredictable climatic fluctuations which could also cause floods. In short, it is time for collective action to face these environmental challenges, transform the climate crisis into an opportunity and guarantee the health and well-being of the Egyptians.

### Luputa: Hope for sustainable agriculture in the DRC

At the heart of the province of Lomami in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Lututa emerges as a model of agricultural innovation thanks to the Ongi Better Life. Faced with growing food insecurity and environmental challenges, this initiative transforms agriculture by combining agroecological and reforestation practices. Farmers, trained in lasting techniques, improve their yields while preserving biodiversity. With carbon credit mechanisms, they generate additional income, opening the way to local resilient economy in the face of climate change. By approaching food security and environmental protection as additional objectives, Luputa may well inspire other regions of the DRC. The future of this initiative emphasizes that change is possible when communities and NGOs collaborate for a more sustainable world.

### Suspension of mining activities: an alert signal in Walikale

Alphamin Bisie Mining suspended his operations in Walikale, highlighting the disturbing consequences of armed tensions between the M23 and the Congolese armed forces. This decision impacts not only the local economy, depending on the tin, but also raises crucial questions about the long -term stability of the Democratic Republic of Congo. While the evacuation of workers highlights safety issues, the repercussions on local communities and the environment are also worrying. With an urgent need to reassess strategies, the DRC must consider a more responsible exploitation of its natural resources, combining security, economic development and respect for human rights. The road to a peaceful and sustainable future is strewn with pitfalls, but collaboration between businesses, the government and the populations is essential to transform this crisis into an opportunity.

** Cyclone Jude: The Mozambique struggle in the face of a chaotic destiny **

The Mozambique, regularly struck by devastating cyclones, was once again tested with the passage of the Jude cyclone on March 10, 2025. With gusts reaching almost 195 km/h, this storm caused the death of nine people and injured about twenty others, revealing the growing magnitude of climatic disasters with which the country is confronted. With nearly 5 million Mozambican affected by cyclones between 2019 and 2023, this situation highlights the gaps in the government response and the need for a proactive approach to these crises.

The climatic issues are becoming more and more pressing, exacerbated by an aging and unsuitable infrastructure. While local authorities are struggling to manage the situation, the integration of prevention and resilience policies has become essential. The impacts are not limited to material damage: psychological trauma, especially in children whose education is compromised, represents a major challenge.

To get out of this destructive cycle, Mozambique must invest in resistant infrastructure, ensure better rescue coordination and promote psychosocial support programs. The future of the country depends on a transformation of crises into renewal and strengthening opportunities. National and international solidarity will be crucial to build a Mozambique not only rebuilt, but also reinforced in the face of the coming storms.

### Science resilience in the face of censorship

Since Donald Trump’s return to power in 2025, the scientific community has crossed a tumultuous period marked by budget cuts, dismissals and alarming censorship. However, a resistance movement takes shape with the hashtag #StanduPforscience, embodying the determination of researchers to defend the integrity and transparency of scientific research. Statistics are worrying: more than 20% of researchers have financing cuts, especially in critical fields such as climate research. However, this crisis could also be an opportunity to rethink science and re -enter the general public. Through education and communication initiatives, scientists strive to reconnect with society, affirming that free science is essential for our future. In a context where truth is often undermined, the role of science as a common good has never been so crucial.

### Zoolandia: the ecological renaissance of Brazzaville

In Brazzaville, the zoological park, now renamed Zolandia, embodies an inspiring and necessary transformation for the preservation of biodiversity. This place formerly in decline is reinventing itself in an educational and fun space, welcoming 107 new species and a botanical garden. More than just a zoo, Zolandia aspires to arouse the ecological consciences of young generations while becoming a flagship destination for sustainable tourism in Africa. With a strong commitment to the local culture and the environment, this park is positioned as a symbol of hope and rebirth for the Republic of Congo, demonstrating that harmony between man and nature is not only possible, but essential.

** An enlightened energy future: Africa at the heart of the Green Revolution **

While Africa aspires to become a leader in renewable energies, a major challenge stands on its way: energy storage. This article examines how, despite significant advances in the solar and wind field, the lack of storage infrastructure prevents effective integration of renewable energies. With still high costs and often unsuitable regulations, the road to a successful energy transition seems sown with pitfalls.

However, the opportunities are just as palpable. Thanks to its resources rich in lithium and cobalt, the continent has the potential to develop local supply chains for batteries, while promoting models of “energy communities” which guarantee access to electricity for all. By adopting an innovative and collaborative approach, Africa can transform these challenges into springboards, thus positioning itself as a pole of attraction for sustainable investments and an example inspiring with an inclusive and environmentally friendly energy.

** 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.