Stakeholder training on FLEGT-VPA and artisanal logging in Province Orientale, DR Congo

This training was organized to strengthen the capacity of local stakeholders to participate in the FLEGT-VPA process. The need for this training derived from the results of a survey that took place in June, from which it was concluded that less than 10% of local actors have the knowledge on the process of negotiation of FLEGT-VPA in DR Congo.

The training consisted of eight modules: (1) the process FLEGT-VPA and timber regulations of the European Union; (2) sustainable forest management; (3) RIL; (4) analysis of the artisanal timber; (5) management of conflicts; (6) participatory mapping; (7) national regulation of artisanal logging; and (8) involvement of stakeholders in the FLEGT-VPA process.

The training was attended by 50 people from two districts of Province Orientale, mainly from the areas Aru, Mahagi Mambasa (in the Ituri district) and Bafwasende, Isangi and Ubundu (in the district of Tshopo). Each delegation consisted of five people, including: the administrator of the territory, the local administration in charge of forests, a representative of the local communities, a representative of the artisanal loggers and the civil society. The Provincial Assembly and the provincial Department of Natural Resources were also represented in this workshop.

At the end of this training, the participants were given the task of organizing feedback sessions in their respective areas. Tropenbos International DR Congo has made available to delegates from each region, a kit of materials needed for the organization of these activities.

At the closing ceremony, the Program Director of TBI DR Congo, Professor Alphonse Maindo invited all participants to apply the knowledge learned during the training for the sustainable management of forest resources. Paulin Odiane, the Minister of Natural Resources, in his closing speech thanked Tropenbos International for this project that provides support to the struggle of the DR Congo against the illegal exploitation of forest resources.