In a significant step towards environmental governance in Chad, the Network of Parliamentarians for Sustainable Management of Central African Forest Ecosystems (REPAR) has met with the Ministry of Environment, Fisheries, and Sustainable Development. On October 2, REPAR's national coordinator, Amsadene Maïdé Hangatta, and Minister Hassan Bakhit Djamous expressed their commitment to combining legislative action and fieldwork to protect the country's ecosystems. REPAR's new team, led by Hangatta, aims to revitalize the organization's efforts.
REPAR, established in 1999 and structured in the early 2000s, brings together ten countries in Central Africa to translate regional and international environmental commitments into laws, policies, and concrete actions. The network's role is crucial in addressing environmental challenges, including desertification, drought, land degradation, and water stress, which Chad is currently facing. Hangatta highlighted REPAR's institutional framework and its goal of working closely with the Ministry to achieve common objectives.
The meeting between REPAR and the Ministry resulted in a memorandum and a roadmap outlining the network's plans. REPAR has requested direct involvement with the Ministry to strengthen public action control and raise citizen awareness about climate challenges. Minister Djamous welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the need for cooperation between the executive and legislative branches to address ecological emergencies. He stressed that protecting natural heritage is a constitutional duty.
Minister Djamous highlighted several critical situations across the country, including the Yamba Berté forest in Mayo-Kebbi Est, which is threatened by uncontrolled occupation and deforestation. He also mentioned excessive tree cutting in the Chari-Baguirmi region and near the capital. The Minister emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Ministry and REPAR to preserve the country's forests and combat illegal activities.
To translate intentions into action, the Ministry and REPAR have agreed to establish a regular consultation framework, meeting quarterly or semiannually. This platform will harmonize initiatives, enhance communication with rural populations, and ensure legislative follow-up adapted to international conventions signed by Chad, such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
The partnership between REPAR and the Ministry of Environment is expected to boost efforts to protect Chad's forest ecosystems and address climate-related challenges. The two entities will work together to develop effective strategies for sustainable forest management, environmental conservation, and climate change mitigation. This collaboration is seen as a crucial step towards achieving environmental sustainability in Chad.
The joint efforts of REPAR and the Ministry of Environment aim to ensure the preservation of Chad's natural resources and promote sustainable development. By working together, the two entities can leverage their expertise and resources to address the country's environmental challenges and improve the livelihoods of its citizens. The partnership is expected to yield positive results in the coming months and years.
Key points
- REPAR and the Ministry of Environment have agreed to establish a regular consultation framework to harmonize initiatives and ensure legislative follow-up.
