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Patrick Mapenzi
In the face of climate change challenges and the need to strengthen social cohesion in North Kivu, the Network for Environmental Support and Integrated Development (RAEDI RDC) is taking a significant step forward. In Ngangi 3, located in the Munigi groupement, Bukumu Chiefdom, Nyiragongo Territory, North Kivu Province, local households and Indigenous Peoples are joining forces to restore the environment while developing sustainable livelihoods.
The end of October 2026 marked a turning point for the community of Ngangi 3 as part of the project entitled “Support for Resilience, Recovery and Social Cohesion of Indigenous Pygmy Peoples and Other Communities Living Along the Virunga National Park.” With financial support from COHERE, RAEDI RDC organized a large-scale community mobilization initiative.
The event was officially opened by the Village Chief of Ngangi, alongside local notables, and brought together a total of 235 direct beneficiary households. The initiative highlighted the central role of women and the importance of involving all segments of society in addressing environmental challenges.
Combating climate change and protecting biodiversity require the involvement of the entire population. This community action day stood out for its strong social representation. Among the participants from the villages of Ngangi I, Ngangi II, Ngangi III, Turunga and Buzove, there were 104 women, representing 44% of the participants, 63 men, 56 young people and 12 elderly people, demonstrating a genuine commitment across generations. Furthermore, the initiative promoted inclusion through the active participation of 48 members of the Indigenous Pygmy Peoples, who have historically lived in communities bordering the park’s forest areas.
The initiative was built around two major activities:
- Community awareness-raising: Discussions focused on protecting the fragile ecosystems surrounding Virunga National Park, the role of trees in combating soil erosion and local warming, as well as promoting peaceful social cohesion among neighboring communities.
- Distribution of fruit tree seedlings: To translate this commitment into concrete action, 560 fruit tree seedlings were distributed to households. The selected species were chosen for their dual ecological and economic benefits and included avocado, plum, lemon and orange trees.
This agroforestry approach will not only help restore forest cover and improve vegetation in the area, but will also provide households with nutritional resources and opportunities to generate income in the medium term.
Empowering Communities to Become Agents of Their Own Recovery
By placing women and Indigenous Peoples at the heart of this initiative, RAEDI RDC and its partner COHERE reaffirm that the most sustainable environmental solutions begin at the local level.
Planting a tree in Nyiragongo goes beyond a simple environmental gesture. It represents an act of empowerment, a foundation for peaceful coexistence among neighboring communities, and a meaningful contribution to building more resilient communities capable of withstanding climate-related and socio-economic shocks.
