A professor at a university in the Democratic Republic of Congo has commended the country's Environment Minister, Marie Nyange, for implementing major environmental reforms. These reforms focus on forest governance, climate change, carbon market, biodiversity, sanitation, and the valorization of the country's natural capital. According to Professor Malick Muamba, an expert in environmental issues, these reforms have been crucial in promoting sustainable development in the country. The professor made these remarks during an exchange with the Congolese Press Agency (ACP) in Kinshasa.
Professor Muamba highlighted several key initiatives undertaken by Minister Nyange, including the adoption of the 2026-2035 National Forest Policy by the government. This policy provides a strategic framework for the governance and sustainable management of the country's vast forest resources. Additionally, the professor mentioned the revision of the Forest Code, aimed at modernizing the legal framework for the sector and adapting it to new environmental, climate, economic, and community challenges. These reforms are expected to improve forest governance and promote sustainable forest management.
The professor also praised the development of the Congolese carbon market, including the creation of a National Carbon Registry, measurement, reporting, and verification (MRV) mechanisms, and a regulatory framework. These instruments are designed to improve transparency, traceability, and environmental credibility of carbon projects in the country. Furthermore, Professor Muamba noted that the minister has prioritized the involvement of local communities in environmental initiatives, including payment for environmental and ecosystem services. This approach aims to ensure that communities benefit from carbon market activities.
Another significant area of focus for Minister Nyange is the fight against plastic pollution. The government has launched initiatives to recover, transform, and valorize plastic waste into raw materials. Additionally, the professor mentioned the "La Forêt, C'est Nous" program, which aims to restore forest landscapes, with targets of several billion trees and millions of hectares to be restored. This program is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable land use and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Professor Muamba also highlighted the minister's efforts to promote national mobilization around climate change, including the organization of the National Climate Week and the strengthening of the country's participation in international environmental negotiations. Furthermore, the professor noted that the government has prioritized the protection of biodiversity and protected areas, including the Kivu-Kinshasa Green Corridor and other conservation initiatives. These efforts aim to preserve the country's rich natural heritage and promote sustainable development.
The professor also mentioned the minister's focus on strengthening environmental control of mining activities, particularly in mining provinces. This includes addressing water pollution, managing effluents, and ensuring compliance with environmental obligations. Additionally, Professor Muamba highlighted the importance of environmental diplomacy, with the goal of consolidating the Democratic Republic of Congo's position as a major player in the Congo Basin and global discussions on forests, climate, biodiversity, and green finance.
In conclusion, Professor Muamba emphasized the need for continued reforms and institutional strengthening to ensure the success of these initiatives. He noted that the minister's portfolio now encompasses a wide range of strategic issues, including forest management, carbon, climate, biodiversity, pollution, green economy, and environmental diplomacy. The professor concluded that the challenge now is to translate these reforms into measurable results on the ground, benefiting local communities and future generations.
Key points
- The Democratic Republic of Congo has adopted a 2026-2035 National Forest Policy to promote sustainable forest management and governance.
- The government has developed a carbon market framework, including a National Carbon Registry and MRV mechanisms, to improve transparency and environmental credibility.
- The country has launched initiatives to combat plastic pollution, restore forest landscapes, and promote national mobilization around climate change.
