The 2026 annual Forum of Actors in Co-Management of Protected Areas (FACAP 2026) took place on October 28, 2026, at Chad's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The event brought together conservation stakeholders to address biodiversity protection, sustainable development, and preservation of the country's natural and archaeological heritage. The forum focused on the congestion of protected areas and was organized in collaboration with conservation partners, including the African Parks Network and the European Union.

The Ministry of Environment, Fisheries, and Sustainable Development launched the forum, which provided a platform for discussing the role of national parks in Chad's development and strengthening co-management mechanisms for protected areas. Participants examined the potential for revenue-generating activities benefiting local communities. The discussions also centered on the responsibilities of various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Environment, Fisheries, and Sustainable Development, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Handicrafts, and African Parks.

A panel dedicated to co-management of protected areas explored the roles of different stakeholders, including government ministries and African Parks. The forum also acknowledged the contributions of partner NGOs, such as Sahara Conservation and Noé, to fauna and ecosystem protection. These organizations play a vital role in supporting conservation efforts in Chad.

The second panel focused on collectively building ecological resilience and preserving archaeological heritage. The discussions aimed to produce recommendations for enhancing collaboration among park managers, public institutions, and local communities. Effective management of protected areas is crucial for Chad's sustainable development and conservation goals.

The forum's outcomes are expected to inform strategies for improving the management of national parks and protected areas in Chad. By engaging various stakeholders, the event promoted a collaborative approach to conservation and sustainable development. The government and its partners recognize the importance of protected areas in supporting the country's economic and environmental well-being.

Chad's conservation efforts have been bolstered by partnerships with international organizations, such as the African Parks Network and the European Union. These collaborations have contributed to the protection of the country's natural and cultural resources. The FACAP 2026 forum demonstrated the commitment of Chad's government and stakeholders to preserving its unique heritage.

The forum concluded with a renewed emphasis on cooperation and coordinated action to address the challenges facing Chad's protected areas. By working together, stakeholders can ensure the long-term conservation of the country's biodiversity and natural resources. The success of these efforts will depend on the effective implementation of the recommendations and strategies developed during the forum.

Key points

  • The forum brought together various stakeholders to discuss co-management of protected areas and sustainable development in Chad.
  • The event was organized in collaboration with conservation partners, including the African Parks Network and the European Union.
  • The forum aimed to produce recommendations for enhancing collaboration among park managers, public institutions, and local communities.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.